Thembinkosi Lorch Under Investigation by Orlando Pirates

Allegations have flourished against Thembinkosi Lorch, a Midfielder for South Africa’s Orlando Pirates. These allegations regarding domestic abuse towards his girlfriend, with reports indicating that the 27-year-old footballer had strangled & assaulted his significant offer in rages of assault. This event occurred on September 6th but wouldn’t be revealed by SA Law Enforcement until the 7th.

The actions of Thembinkosi Lorch have been condemned by the Orlando Pirates, who claimed that violence against women is unaccepted in their football club. Representatives with the Orlando Pirates stated on September 8th that they’d launched an investigation into Thembinkosi Lorch. This investigation has commenced with immediate effect and will likely result in the footballer’s contractual termination from the Orlando Pirates.

An official statement regarding the allegations towards Thembinkosi Lorch was released on the Orlando Pirates website. It mentioned that the Code of Conduct & Pledge all footballers signed in their football club was disregarded by Thembinkosi Lorch. Club members agree upon their contract signing that they’ll stand against violence towards children & women, with this including domestic abuse. Orlando Pirates statement evoked that their Code of Conduct is effective on-field & off, 24/7. It’s for this core reason that allegations against Thembinkosi Lorch are being taken seriously by club leaders.

Issues with Lorch Continue

This isn’t the first incident with Thembinkosi Lorch in 2020. The midfielder was found breaking COVID-19 PSL Safety Protocols in late August. Lorch was attending social gatherings with Justin Shonga, his Zambian Teammate on the Orlando Pirates. Both footballers were given minor punishments for their actions, accepting financial charges & adhering to two PCR COVID-19 Tests. Members of the Premier Soccer League in South Africa condemned the actions of Justin Shonga & Thembinkosi Lorch. Recent allegations of domestic abuse against Lorch will likely increase his inevitable downfall in the PSL.

The Orlando Pirates will likely terminate their ongoing contract with Thembinkosi Lorch. This club has fought against the violence of women & children for years, serving as role models for victims of this very abuse. Employing a footballer that committed domestic abuse goes directly against their pledge.