North police warn residents against mob justice
"Mob justice has left many people with not only blood on their hands but also with a criminal record."
Police in the north of Tshwane have called on community members to refrain from taking the law into their own hands in the form of mob justice.
Recently in Ga-Rankuwa phase 8, a man was killed and five others critically injured after they were attacked during a mob justice-related incident.
According to residents, the victims were accused of being part of a gang called amaRussia which has allegedly been terrorising locals.
Rietgat police spokesperson Captain Stephen Maluleka said it has come to their attention that the community tends to resort to violence when they find or catch a suspect in the commission of a crime.
“Mob justice has left many people with not only blood on their hands but also with a criminal record. As a law-abiding citizen, think twice before you take part in attacking alleged criminals because it could land you in jail,” he warned.
“Earlier in the first quarter of this year, three suspects were arrested for allegedly assaulting and beating an alleged criminal to death in Block P. They are currently facing charges of murder.”
Maluleka said police condemned assaulting alleged criminals.
“If you find someone who is alleged to have committed a crime or is seen to be breaking the law, inform the police to do their work accordingly.
Ga-Rankuwa police spokesperson Shimi Tsheole also warned people against mob justice.
“Those who take the law into their own hands will face the full might of the law. You will be arrested and sent to court. Those who seriously want to fight crime must consider joining structures such as their local CPF.”
Maluleksa said anyone who witnesses mob justice incidents or criminal activity in their neighbourhood should contact the police on Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or MySAPS App or call the Rietgat SAPS station at 012 432 7806.
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