A suspected robber was allegedly beaten and burnt to death by angry residents in Browns Farm, Nyanga, on Thursday, 26 February.
Residents said the suspect was caught after he allegedly tried to rob a woman at her shack.
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The woman reportedly screamed for help while the man was breaking in. Her screams alerted nearby residents, who rushed to the scene and chased the robber.
“They chased, caught and beat him up. Residents are tired of people who are robbing them. What’s annoying is these people, even when arrested, will be on the streets the following day.”
“That’s why residents decided to beat this person and burn him,” said a resident.
When Daily Sun visited the area, residents said crime has become too much and people feel helpless.
They said robbers often target vulnerable residents, especially women living alone in shacks.
Police spokesman Captain Frederick van Wyk confirmed the incident and said police are investigating a murder case.
“Nyanga police registered a murder case following the discovery of the burnt body of an unidentified male on 26 February at 4.45am at the corners of Mbovane and Mnqaba streets in Browns Farm, Nyanga,” said Van Wyk.
He said police responded to reports of a body lying in the street. When they arrived, they found the victim naked and severely burnt.
“On arrival, they found the deceased who was totally burnt and naked. Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation,” he said.
Van Wyk said the victim is believed to be about 27 years old and his identity is still unknown. Police suspect the killing was linked to mob justice.
He strongly condemned vigilantism and warned residents not to take the law into their own hands.
“The South African Police Service condemns vigilantism in the strongest possible terms. Acts of mob justice are criminal and pose a direct threat to the safety and stability of our communities,” said Van Wyk.
He urged residents to report crime instead of attacking suspects.
Detectives are now working to identify the victim and find those responsible for the killing.
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Police have asked anyone with information to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Residents, however, said they feel forced to protect themselves as crime remains high in the area.
