Heightened tensions between police and residents of Snake Park, Soweto, after the killing of Karabo Sabelo Moletsane, allegedly by the police, triggered questions of excessive police force.

The spiral of events led to road closures calling for justice after the death of the 22-year-old who was allegedly shot in a clash between police and residents last Tuesday.

According to community leader Thokozani Mbatha, the community apprehended a criminal tied to a spate of house robberies in the area.

The police arrived on the scene and took the suspect, which angered the community who threw stones at the police vehicle.

Moletsane, who was in the crowd of residents, was caught in the crossfire when police opened fire to disperse the disgruntled community members.

“The community got angry because we have been reporting these criminals and our cries fell on deaf ears at the police station. We decided to take matters into our own hands and apprehended one of the suspects because we are tired.

“They arrived and with no engagement, [and] took the suspect into their custody which tells us that criminals are being protected,” explains Mbatha.

Moletsane was taken to a local hospital where he was declared dead.

Family, residents seek answers

A distraught family relative, Hleliwe Machine, says: “We are shattered. Karabo’s life was shortened by someone who was meant to serve and protect the community.

“His death has brought many unanswered questions but we want the officer responsible for his death to be arrested. What was the intention of shooting with live ammunition? What happened to using rubber bullets?”

Residents call for justice and police to account for his death. They blame the police’s failure to tackle crime in the area and protection of criminals.

“I’m one of the victims of house robberies. These criminals are terrorising us, and they do it knowing they won’t be arrested. We are let down by the police.

“The community caught the criminal, not the police – because they are enabling the criminals. Instead they turn around and arrest the patrollers who are fighting this crime,” exclaims Eunice Mohale.

Investigation

Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) spokesperson Phaladi Shuping confirmed that they are handling the matter.

“The matter was reported to Ipid, and Ipid took over the docket for investigation. Detailed questions can only be responded to once the investigations are finalised. The docket will be handed over to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision.”