In response to the alarming surge in homicides, Prime Minister (PM) Ntsokoane Sam Matekane has directed the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) to take decisive action to curb the escalating violence.

Lesotho currently holds the uninviting distinction of having the sixth-highest murder rate globally, this is according to a recent World Population Review report. This has prompted urgent intervention from the highest levels of government.

The Prime Minister stressed that the government will not tolerate the destabilizing actions of these perpetrators, which threaten the peace and security of the nation.

He stated, “We cannot allow these killers to disturb the peace and stability of our country, and to threaten people in their communities.”

In a swift response, LDF Commander Lieutenant General Mojalefa Letsoela confirmed that the military had been closely monitoring the situation and was prepared to act.

“There is no time to waste now that the PM has spoken,” Letsoela remarked, assuring the public that the LDF will take all necessary measures to eliminate this violent behaviour and restore safety across the nation.

The directive from the Prime Minister signals a critical turning point in the government’s approach to addressing the violent crime wave, highlighting a firm stance on maintaining law and order in Lesotho.

Source: Lesotho News Agency (LENA) 1/8/2024