VANDERBIJLPARK – Blood spilled and flames engulfed a shack in Bophelong after an angry mob allegedly went on a revenge mission following the fatal stabbing of a 29-year-old man.

The early-morning violence unfolded on Saturday after a group of armed young men allegedly attacked and stabbed the victim during a robbery in Extension 14.

Angry residents reportedly took to the streets, hunting down the suspected robbers in an attempt to find those responsible for the killing.

One man believed to be among the suspects was allegedly caught and severely beaten by the mob.

The angry crowd then reportedly descended on Marikana, where the alleged gang is said to operate.

After failing to find more suspects, the mob allegedly set a shack believed to be linked to the group alight.

Responding to Ster’s media inquiry, Sedibeng District police spokesperson, Sergeant Thembeka Maxambela, confirmed that police had opened a murder case following the stabbing.

“Police responded to a complaint and found the man lying on the ground near a residence with stab wounds to his head and chest. His body was taken to the government mortuary in Sebokeng.

“The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation. Information regarding arrests, the alleged burning of a shack and the assault of another man is still being verified. Further details will be communicated once confirmed,” she said.

Meanwhile, community members have raised concerns about the alleged reign of terror by young criminals in the area.

Vuyo Mdluli said residents had been battling criminal gangs for a long time, with people allegedly being robbed and killed.

“For the longest time, residents have battled gangsters in the area. People have been robbed and killed and the police are not doing anything. Residents end up taking the law into their own hands because they feel failed,” he said.