A shocking love triangle has ended in tragedy after two Zimbabwean brothers allegedly hacked a man to death with an axe during a violent confrontation in Limpopo, South Africa.

The suspects, identified as Johannes Makhura (20) and his elder brother, Jonas Makhura (55), appeared before the Senwabarwana Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. The court remanded them in custody until September 15, when the case will proceed at the Maleboho Periodical Court.

According to police reports, the incident happened on Monday, September 1, in Wegdraai Village, Maleboho. The brothers allegedly discovered that the 55-year-old victim was romantically involved with Jonas’ girlfriend. They confronted the man at a homestead where he was with a 38-year-old woman.

A violent altercation broke out. Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said Jonas allegedly attacked the victim with an axe, killing him on the spot. The woman was also injured during the attack and rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Paramedics confirmed the victim dead at the scene.

Police have since charged the brothers with multiple offenses. Johannes faces charges of murder, defeating the ends of justice, and contravening the Immigration Act, while Jonas is charged with murder, attempted murder, and violating the Immigration Act.

The axe used in the attack was recovered. Johannes was arrested shortly after the incident, while Jonas was later caught in the Alldays area, reportedly hiding inside a truck bound for Zimbabwe with a bag of clothes in an attempt to flee.

Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the killing and praised both the police and community members for their swift response.

“This was a brutal act of violence. We call upon communities to continue working closely with the police. We will not tolerate such despicable behaviour, and no one is above the law,” she said.

The case continues on September 15.