Orlando Pirates has removed its player Thembinkosi Lorch from all club activities until December 12, 2023.
The decision comes after Randburg Magistrates’ court sentenced the midfielder to three years imprisonment for assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Fundiswa Nokuphiwa Mathithibala. The sentence was wholly suspended for five years on condition that he is not found guilty of committing a similar offence during the period of suspension.
A statement from the Soweto giants stated: “Orlando Pirates has noted the conclusion of legal proceedings involving our player, Thembinkosi Lorch. Consistent with Orlando Pirates Rules and Pledge, articulated in the statement the club issued when the legal proceedings commenced, the Club is commencing its internal process.
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“Orlando Pirates is at all times mindful of its obligation as a result of the employer-employee relationship it has with the players. The Club also handles the administration of justice in a manner that avoids double jeopardy – where the players would be punished twice for the same offence. The above are consistent with the club values without which the Club would not function judiciously.
“Having said that the Club has removed Thembinkosi Lorch from all Club activities until December 12. Orlando Pirates is grateful to its sponsors, supporters and the broader community for the space that you have provided in ensuring the rule of law and the clubs value system play out without hinderance.”