In a disturbing development, residents of Mavhunga Village near Thohoyandou in Limpopo are alarmed after a series of grave desecrations have left the community shaken and fearful. According to local reports, unknown criminals have been targeting graves at night, digging them up and stealing corpses, which are believed to be used for ritualistic purposes.
The shocking incidents came to light on Saturday, 12 July 2025, when the Mphephu Police Station received a report about grave violations at the village cemetery. The incident quickly drew the attention of villagers who described the acts as a direct attack on their ancestors and the sanctity of burial grounds.
Villager Mashudu Lufhuno, aged 43, expressed deep concern over the situation. “Gravesites are sacred spaces that hold immense cultural and spiritual value. It is heartbreaking and disturbing to see these sacred places being violated like this. People must respect our dead and allow them to rest in peace,” she said.
Similarly, 67-year-old resident Dennis Tshifhiwa said he had never witnessed such a horrendous act in his lifetime. “These acts are beyond just criminal offenses. They disrespect our traditions and can cause serious repercussions for both the families affected and the perpetrators themselves. Our ancestors deserve to be left undisturbed,” Tshifhiwa added.
According to police statements, the crime was brought to light after a family member received a call from a community member who noticed suspicious activity at the cemetery. Upon rushing to the scene, the family member found one of the graves dug up, with broken pieces of a coffin scattered outside. The suspects had already fled by the time help arrived.
Limpopo police spokesman Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed that an investigation into the grave violation was launched immediately following the report. “We are taking this matter very seriously. The Mphephu police, operating in the Vhembe district, have opened a case and are actively working to identify and apprehend the culprits involved,” Ledwaba said.
Limpopo Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe expressed her shock and outrage regarding the incident. She has directed detectives to use all available resources to track down those responsible and bring them to justice. “Violating graves is a heinous offense that disrupts the peace of our communities and dishonors our ancestors. We will ensure a thorough investigation,” she stated.
The community is now calling for enhanced security measures to prevent further grave violations. Many residents are deeply concerned about the safety of their loved ones’ final resting places and hope for swift police action.
Authorities urge anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist the investigation. Individuals can contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Lirovha Mashudu Fortune, at 072 943 5260 or report anonymously through CrimeStop at 08600 10111. The MySAPSApp and local police stations also remain available for tip-offs.
As Mavhunga Village grapples with this unsettling threat, the incident raises broader concerns about the protection of burial sites and respect for cultural traditions in the region. The community’s plea is clear: allow the dead to rest peacefully, and hold accountable those who violate this sacred trust.