PINETOWN police have confirmed that the alleged kidnapping that occurred in central Pinetown yesterday afternoon was a misunderstanding that led to the tragic death of two innocent men.
Community members turned violent, stoning and stabbing the men, who they assumed were kidnapping a young boy.
READ MORE: Community justice saves toddler from kidnappers
According to Pinetown SAPS communications officer, Capt Bongumusa Manqele, the seven year-old child, who is mentally challenged, was with his dad’s friend, Mlungisi Nxumalo waiting for his father when tragedy struck.
“The child’s dad had just gone to the shops when the child started screaming for him. When Mlungisi tried to calm him down, the boy hit the car window and that is when the bystanders accused Mlungisi of kidnapping the boy,” said Manqele.
ALSO WATCH: Eyewitness account of the mob attack on alleged kidnappers in Pinetown
A second man, whose identity is unknown at the moment, tried to intervene and was also beaten up by the mob and died on scene. Mlungisi died on his way to hospital.
Manqele also confirmed the rumours that the two men were foreigners and reports that the child was tied up and bundled into the car boot were untrue.
“A case of double murder is being investigated by Pinetown SAPS,” said Manqele.
Pinetown detectives are requesting assistance in tracing the relatives of the unknown man.
Manqele said the unknown man is an African who is about 40 years old. He was wearing a pair of blue jeans and a grey t-shirt.
Anyone who may have information regarding the deceased’s identity is urged contact the investigating officer, Detective Warrant Officer Mwandla on 078 700 6659 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Mlungisi’s sister speaks out
Mbali Nxumalo, Mlungisi’s younger sister told the Highway Mail that her brother and the boy’s father travelled to and from work together.
“Yesterday, they had just fetched the boy from school. The boy told his dad that he was hungry. The dad had just stepped out when the incident happened. We were told that the second man who was killed was trying to intervene when he was beaten up and we still have no idea who he was and we would love to get in touch with his family.”
Mbali said the father also tried to explain to the crowd that he was the dad but he was also attacked and he was very lucky to escape from the crowd.
“As a family, we would like to appeal to the government to look into this matter and take action. This incident can still happen to other innocent people,” said Mbali.
Mbali said Mlungisi was going to turn 44 today and the family is still very shocked and hurt by this incident.
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