GEORGE NEWS - Mob justice has again reared its ugly head in Thembalethu. The most recent confirmed attack was on Saturday 24 July, when a man was allegedly brutally assaulted and torched in Zone 6.
According to Southern Cape police spokesperson, Capt Malcolm Pojie, it is believed that the deceased (31) became the victim of mob justice after he allegedly broke in and stole three cellphones from a residence in the area.
"The community members mobilised themselves and searched for the deceased. After tracking him down, they allegedly assaulted him with various objects after which they torched him with tyres."
The victim was transported to hospital via ambulance but died of his injuries the next day.
Investigation into another alleged mob justice attack on Saturday 26 June, again in Zone 6, has led to the arrest of three suspects.
According to Pojie police were notified of the attack taking place in some bushes in the area early that morning. On arrival at 06:00, they found the victim on the ground.
"When police arrived they noticed a group of people who immediately dispersed when they saw the police. The victim was found with multiple injuries and was taken to hospital where he later succumbed to his wounds," said Pojie.
Eden Cluster Commander Maj-Gen Oswald Reddy has condemned the actions of so-called law-abiding citizens who take matters into their own hands.
He reiterated that by acting in such a way, they become criminals themselves and will have to be dealt with accordingly.
"Allow the law to take its course. Report criminal activities to the local police in order for the necessary investigations to be conducted to ensure that suspects are brought before court to account for their heinous deeds," he said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the investigating officer at the Thembalethu detectives, Sgt Thembilani Kima, on 044 802 8965, 079 894 1576 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. All information will be dealt with confidentially.
George Herald has received information about two more alleged mob justice attacks this week. Both of these attacks took place in Zone 9.
The first occurred on Monday 26 July and although details surrounding the incident are still unclear, it is believed that the victim is alive.
The second alleged incident happened in the early morning hours of Tuesday 27 July. Details surrounding this incident could not yet be confirmed by police, but according to an informed source, the victim in this incident died.
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