Orlando Pirates announced the reinstatement of Thembinkosi Lorch, a convicted gender-based violence (GBV) offender, to full club activities following his suspension, as confirmed on Wednesday.
Lorch had been suspended by the Pirates on November 22
pending a disciplinary process, immediately after receiving a three-year
suspended prison sentence on charges of assaulting his ex-girlfriend in the
Randburg magistrate’s court.
According to a statement released by the club on Wednesday,
Lorch underwent a disciplinary committee hearing and recommitted to 'The
Pledge'.
The statement highlighted Lorch's actions during the
suspension period, citing his demonstration of accountability for past actions
and active participation in a clinical evaluation, along with a commitment to
recommended follow-up care.
☠️ 📰 𝗟𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 📰
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) December 13, 2023
📢 Lorch Returns from Suspension
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Expressing dedication to personal growth, Lorch reportedly
acknowledged the potential repercussions should he fail to adhere to the set
standards.
The club officially announced Lorch's completion of the
suspension period, making him eligible to rejoin club activities effective
immediately.
As part of the club's pledge, Orlando Pirates emphasized
their stance against GBV, declaring support for women and children affected by
violence. Members vowed to actively oppose violence targeting these vulnerable
groups and serve as role models in society.
In addition to the suspended prison sentence, Lorch was
ordered on November 21 to pay R100,000 to the anti-GBV organization, People
Opposing Women Abuse. Furthermore, he was deemed unfit to possess a firearm
under the Firearms Control Act.
Source: TimeLIVE