Duduza – Duduza police are calling on the community to exercise calm and allow the police to investigate the events leading to the death of four-year-old Bokamoso Tsotetsi over the weekend.
Tsotetsi was reported missing on Friday evening and her body was later found in Spaardam on Saturday.
On Saturday evening an angry mob flocked to the home of one of the residents who they claim is responsible for the girl’s death.
They threatened to torch his home and take his life.
Duduza police spokesperson Sergeant Harry Manaka says the community needs to be reminded that a person cannot be arrested if there is no proof that he is linked to the case.
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“In this case, there is no evidence, witness or statement that puts him on the scene or link him to the incident,” he explains.
Manaka says after the community had gathered at the man’s place, the police intervened by securing the person to keep him safe from harm.
“This gave the police an opportunity to interview the man to determine whether he is indeed linked to the case or not.
“However, there was no one who came forward to give a statement and no other information was available linking the man to the case.
“With no information available the police had to release him after six hours of questioning him, because further detention would amount to unlawful arrest and ultimately a civil claim against the police,” he further explains.
Manaka reminded the community that they cannot assume whenever a person is released from the police custody that the police have taken bribes.
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“This is a dangerous assumption. We understand the frustration and the sadness endured by the family.
“We can confirm that the police are doing everything they can to trace and arrest the perpetrator.
“The community is therefore urged to give police a chance to investigate and not to risk putting the case in jeopardy by taking the law into their own hands.
“If anyone has information that could lead to the arrest of the person responsible, they are urged to call the Duduza SAPS on 071 675 7027 or 011 730-4723 or 10111,” adds Manaka.
