Orlando Pirates have confirmed they will initiate an investigation into the conduct of Thembinkosi Lorch following alleged gender-based violence claims against him.

The 27-year-old was reportedly charged and arrested during the early hours of Monday morning on allegations of domestic violence.

However, the Pirates attacker was released on R2,000 bail on Monday afternoon.

The Buccaneers have since released a statement insisting that their code of conduct applies to all Pirates employees, including players, who are signatories.

‘Orlando Pirates Football Club is initiating an investigation into the conduct of Thembinkosi Lorch. This is in line with the Club’s Code of Conduct and Pledge that all Orlando Pirates employees including players are signatories to.

‘The Orlando Pirates Code of Conduct and specific Pledge against violence perpetrated against Women and Children impose duty on the Club to investigate the allegations make against Lorch.

‘The Code of Conduct and Pledge apply 24/7, on and off the field of play. The Club investigation will commence with immediate effect.’

Pirates have also confirmed their pledge that women are the base and children the future of our society.

‘We at Orlando Pirates recognise:

• That women are the base and children the future of our society

• That violence against women and children is like waging a war on ourselves as a nation

‘We at Orlando Pirates therefore pledge:

• To be vocal and speak out against violence targeted at women and children

• To be exemplary through our deeds and serve as role models

• To be supportive to women and children affected by violence

‘Like manners once did, violence is now shaping and obsessing our society. If we do not stop it, it will stop us, and our children will have a bleak future.’