A young man accused of theft died in an alleged mob justice attack in Vrygrond on Tuesday 15 March.
Muizenberg police spokesperson Capt Stephen Knapp confirmed the incident.
“Muizenberg police confirms that this incident occurred at Xakabantu informal settlement, Vrygrond, on Tuesday 15 March at approximately 15:30.”
He added that no arrests have yet been made.
In a Facebook post Yolanda Anderson wrote that the young man was accused of theft and allegedly set alight.
“In Xakabantu a young man was set alight and burned to death mob justice style. Is that the only way people can resort to thieves nowadays? The prisons are filled to capacity; yet was this necessary?”
She further questioned what could possibly be gained by such a senseless act.
“So tonight, another mother and family are crying because of losing a child to senseless mob justice.
“What will anyone gain by killing someone because of stealing? Where and what is the justice system doing? What’s happening in our communities and where did ubuntu go?”
The post started a debate on mob justice attacks in the community.
Commenting on the post Angaliba Kalindime wrote: “That’s what happens when people are tired of being terrorised, it’s sad though that it had to get to that.”
Edwin Mavengano said the justice system has failed people.
“Justice has already failed the ghettos, people are terrorized by these kids who steal out of desperation but still nothing happens to them. I condemn his killing, but please people, are very afraid of these youngsters because they belong to known gangs. Lesson learnt, teach your kids to refrain from all illegal activities or they will face the mob.”
Landry Takouteu responded: “it’s sad that people feel that there is no other choice.
“You can’t work that hard for someone to just steal your stuff like that. The police arrest him and less than three months later, he is out to come steal from you again. People are fed up.”
Caswell Frans said it’s sad that an innocent life was taken.
“So sad to hear of the death of an innocent person, my condolences to the family of the deceased.”
Meanwhile, Leumas Samuel said killing can never be the answer.
“Killing can never be the answer, but to work hard for something and someone breaks into your place, unless they never broke into your place you will not understand.”
- Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the perpetrators is requested to contact detective Sgt Campher on 021 787 9030.
