FREE STATE – The police have issued a stern warning against mob justice and urge the public to refrain from taking the law in to their own hands. This follows after murder and arson cases were reported within the districts.
On Tuesday, 27 September 2022. Patrolling members alleged that they were stopped by a motorist in Thabong about a person lying on the ground in Tlali Street near Thabong Clinic.
Members rushed to the scene and on arrival found a male victim who sustained serious head injuries and was unable to speak. Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was assaulted by community members who alleged that he attempted to steal chairs at one of the establishments.
The victim was rushed to hospital for medical treatment. No arrests have been made as yet however, police investigations continue.
On Wednesday 28 September 2022, police arrested seven suspects after three young males, accused of crime in the area, were attacked at their place of residence at Paballong Village. It is alleged that one of the young boys was arrested for burglary and was later released. Community was unhappy and attacked him. The three were sjamboked, assaulted and their house was set alight. One died at the scene, the second succumbed to injuries while in hospital and the third is in hospital under police guard.
A total of seven suspects were arrested and are still to appear in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court for murder and arson.
The Free State Acting Provincial Commissioner, Maj General Solly Lesia appealed to the community to refrain from taking the law into their own hands as mob justice cannot and will never be an answer to our crime as perpetrators thereof will end up being arrested. This will lead to more cases such as arson, murder, attempted murder and kidnapping being opened against community members who will be implicated in mob-justice. He further urged the community to stop such acts and to rather report any criminal acts or suspicious people to the police to allow the law to take its course.
If you see anything or hear about anything illegal, please contact the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111, the police emergency number 10111 or 112 or send an anonymous tip-off to MySAPS App.
Source: South African Police Service