LTA AND TOURISM ASSOCIATONS EXPRESS SHOCK AT HOTEL MURDERS IN OHRISTAD
By Montsho Matlala
Ohrigstad:Limpopo Tourism Agency (LTA) has expressed shock at the double murders of two elderly owners of Echo Caves hotel in Ohristad near Burgersfort in Sekhukhune district, Limpopo over the weekend.
Blood relatives, Anneke Claassen 73 and Hennie Claassen 77 were found burnt to death in separate houses on the premises on Saturday afternoon.
Moses Ngobeni, Limpopo Tourism Agency (LTA)’s chief executive has abhorred the heinous murders of the two tourism business practitioners.
“Our province is not known for these horrible deeds as we are known as the province of peace. People should not be discouraged by this outrageous incident. We have full confidence in our police and believe they would apprehend perpetrators in due course, “ Ngobeni said.
Sekhukhune District Toursims Association chairperson Jimmy Maboko has warned the gruesome murders have the potential to slow tourism activities.
, “We are all shocked by this incident, we condemn it by all means possible as it has the potential to undermine the contribution made by tourism in Limpopo and the country as a whole”, said Maboko who is also deputy chairperson of Limpopo Provincial Tourism Association.
LTA spokesperson Mike Tauatsoala said it was unfortunate that the terrible incident came a few days after the launch the Winter Campaign on 26 May.
“LTA has identified Sekhukhune, Mopani, Vhembe and Waterberg districts as the warmest areas for people to visit for their winter vacations. We urge people to continue to visit the province despite this disappointing incident as this is not what the peaceful province of Limpopo is known for,” added Tauatsoala.
According to Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba one African male wearing a balaclava was seen leaving the establishment where the gruesome murders occurred.
“Anyone with information that may assist in arresting the suspects is requested to call Detective Lieutenant Colonel Boshomane on 0798945501 or W/O Phaladi Makola on 0827492233,” said Ledwaba.
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