Some residents in Mavhunga Village, near Thohoyandou in Limpopo, are worried.
They describe this issue as “an attack on the dead”.
They said criminals are now targeting graves and stealing corpses.
These criminals reportedly carry out their acts at night, where they allegedly dig graves and steal corpses believed to be used for ritual purposes.
The incident was reported on Saturday, 12 July, at the Mphephu cop shop.
Villager Mashudu Lufhuno (43) said they were shocked.
“Gravesites are sacred places. We must respect these places. Now it’s shocking to see people attacking the dead at night,” she said.
Another villager, Dennis Tshifhiwa (67), said: “I’ve never seen something like this in my entire life. These incidents will have dire consequences not only for the criminals but also for the affected families. They should allow our ancestors to rest.”
Limpopo police spokesman Malesela Ledwaba said investigations are underway.
“The police at Mphephu in Vhembe district outside Thohoyandou have launched an investigation following a violation of the grave at Mavhunga Village cemetery on Saturday, 12 July 2025.”
Ledwaba said a family member received a call from one of the community members alerting her about an unknown group of people busy digging out the graves.
“She quickly responded and rushed to the scene and on arrival at the cemetery, she found that indeed the grave was dug, and some pieces of the coffin were outside. The alleged suspects were already gone.”
Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe has expressed her shock about what happened at the graveyard.
She has instructed the detectives to use the available resources to track and trace the suspects.
A case of grave violation has been registered at Mphephu cop shop.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact investigating officer Sergeant Lirovha Mashudu Fortune on 072 943 5260, CrimeStop on 08600 10111 or contact their nearest police station or use the MySAPSApp.
