Soweto giants Orlando Pirates on Wednesday announced the decision to suspend attacker Thembinkosi Lorch "from all club activities" pending a disciplinary hearing, after being found guilty of assault.
Lorch was on Tuesday handed a suspended three-year prison sentence while being fined R100 000 after being found guilty of assaulting his partner.
READ | Pirates' Maela issues update on recovery
The 30-year-old had been found guilty of "assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm" in July. He was first arrested for the incident in 2020, and had faced a sentence of up to five years behind bars.
"Orlando Pirates Football Club has noted the conclusion of legal proceedings involving our player, Thembinkosi Lorch," a club statement said.
"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.
"Orlando Pirates Football Club 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 Football Club 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."
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click HERE to register!