Alleged mob justice incident in Dwarsloop
The victim died at Mapulaneng Hospital after being fatally assaulted by a mob that allegedly wrongly accused him of local crimes without any evidence.
A 30-year-old man was allegedly killed by community members in an act of mob justice in Dwarsloop Phase One, near Bushbuckridge, on March 23.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe, stated that preliminary investigations revealed the victim had been accused by community members of committing various crimes.
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“It was revealed that there were reports of a rape in the area and several housebreakings. The community concluded on their own, without any proof, that the deceased was the suspect. It is further alleged that residents gathered, confronted, and assaulted the man in the street, leaving him seriously injured. However, when he was confronted, nothing [incriminating] was found on him,” Nonyane-Mpe said.
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She added that an ambulance was called following the assault. The victim was transported to Mapulaneng Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
No arrests have been made at this stage, and investigations are ongoing.
“The police strongly condemn acts of vigilantism and urge community members to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. Such actions undermine the rule of law and may result in further criminal charges,” Nonyane-Mpe said.
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is encouraged to contact Lieutenant Colonel Cindy Mkhabela on 082 469 1298, Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the My SAPS app.
