Graphic warning: The article below contains graphic details and may be disturbing or triggering for some individuals. Reader discretion is advised.

A man has been arrested and is expected to appear in court today for allegedly hacking off a man’s left leg and gouging out his right eye at the Khan Road informal settlement in Raisethorpe, Pietermaritzburg, on Friday.

According to The Witness, Mountain Rise SAPS spokesperson Warrant Officer Panchael Singh said police were called to the scene at 01:30 after receiving a report of an assault.

The complainant said two men had been fighting.

“When police arrived, they met a woman who directed them to the scene, where police found the body of a man. Half of his left leg had been severed, his right eye was gouged out, and he had multiple cuts and bruises all over his body.”

Paramedics were called, but the man was declared dead at the scene.

“The suspect, known to the complainant, had fled, and a manhunt for his arrest was launched,” said Singh.

Later that day, a 32-year-old man was arrested, and police recovered a bush knife and pair of scissors suspected to have been used in the crime.

This brutal incident comes amid growing concerns over the increase in crime in the area.

Ward councillor Rachel Soobiah said concern over crime linked to the informal settlement has been raised repeatedly at community meetings.

She said she and the Mountain Rise Community Policing Forum (CPF) are planning to meet with residents soon.

Soobiah believes someone from the settlement may have information about the frequent muggings in the area but fears of victimisation may be preventing them from coming forward.

Pedestrians are most at risk, with many people having their phones snatched while walking past the settlement.

She added that the issue is particularly concerning as many schoolchildren walk through the area daily.

“Raisethorpe Secondary School, Maritzburg Muslim School for Girls, and Allandale Primary School are all just a stone’s throw from the informal settlement.”

Mountain Rise CPF said it has received numerous complaints of theft and robbery in and around Khan and Chota Motala roads.

CPF chairperson Sham Govender said efforts are underway to increase police visibility in the area. Govender urged residents to take extra precautions, such as avoiding walking alone, especially in high-risk areas.

“Stay alert at all times, whether walking or driving. Refrain from using cell phones in open public spaces.”

“Community safety is our priority. The CPF is working closely with SAPS to address the situation. However, reporting crime is crucial — no matter how small the incident. Posting on social media or WhatsApp groups does not necessarily mean SAPS has been informed,” said Govender.

Whether the suspect appeared in court today was unknown at the time of publishing.

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