Port Shepstone police have condemned the murder of a 30-year-old-man from KwaGanyaza in Boboyi a few weeks ago, after he was allegedly suspected of stealing goods with his friends.
The deceased was allegedly fatally attacked by a group of angry community members who claimed crimes were being perpetrated by paras in their area, and that they (paras) steal anything that they lay their eyes on in their neighbourhood.
Police have said that they are investigating a case of murder after the man was allegedly assaulted by community members and died in hospital on January 29.
No arrests have been made as yet, according to police.
“The circumstances leading to the fatal assault are being investigated, and witnesses who wish to remain anonymous can contact the police. The public is cautioned against resorting to vigilantism. Vigilantism is the act of punishing perceived offences without legal authority. It is a crime to take the law into your own hands. Persons found guilty of vigilantism will be prosecuted,” said police in a statement.
Furthermore, police added that no one may assault or kill a person if they suspect that they might be guilty of a crime. “The public is encouraged to report any criminal activities to the nearest police station or call 10111 in case of an emergency. Call Crimestop on 08600 10111 or use the My Saps App to give tip-offs. If you see something, report it,” concluded the statement.
Boboyi Community Policing Forum secretary Baya Mseleku said: “The forum is aware of this incident and it is regrettable that one person had to die in this fashion. Police rescued one person from the wrath of the community. We were called to see a lot of stolen property that had been recovered. The community was angry and it looks like they caught the paras and beat them. One para died in hospital and another was taken by the police to a place of safety.”
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Fever’s Facebook page
