According to Cleveland SAPS, two men suspected of armed robbery were assaulted by a mob in Kensington on February 25.
The men were suspected of an armed robbery on Kitchener Avenue.
Also read: 72-year-old woman allegedly raped by garden worker
Cleveland SAPS spokesperson Capt Johan Jordaan said the men were caught by a mob as they attempted to flee the scene on foot after they allegedly held up a man, using a toy gun, and took cellphones.
“The man was walking down the street, on his way to work, when two men approached and pointed a firearm at him,” said Jordaan.
“One of them searched him and took two cellphones from his pocket. They then ran away and the complainant immediately screamed for help.”
Jordaan applauded the community’s quick response but urged them to err on the side of caution and not to resort to violence when dealing with such matters.
“Members of the community heard his cries for help and they managed to apprehend both suspects. They also recovered the two cellphones belonging to the victim.
Also read: Cleveland SAPS probe death of two girls who died from eating poisoned bones
“We are happy that they assisted in the arrest. However, some took the law into their own hands and when police arrived, officers found that the suspects had already been assaulted,” he said.
“The management of Cleveland SAPS wants the community to assist us. However, they should not take the law into their own hands in the course of doing so.”
In addition, Jordaan said officers recovered the toy gun.
“It was handed over to Cleveland SAPS as an exhibit and the two suspects, aged 18 and 19, were charged with armed robbery.”
The case will be investigated by the station’s detective unit.
Jordaan added that the ages of the perpetrators should be cause for concern.
“It is very sad that people of this young age are getting themselves involved in crime. We urge the community to come forward with any information regarding all crimes and contact the police at any time.
“We thank the members of the community who assisted in making this good arrest and ultimately took dangerous criminals off the streets,” he said.
He said the suspects did not suffer any serious injury and were expected to appear in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court soon.
For more news and interesting articles, like Joburg East Express on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. Email joburgeast@caxton.co.za
