BARBERTON – The community was left in shock after the lifeless body of a 30-year-old man was found near the local Salvation Army Church.
The victim had stab wounds on both thighs and was pronounced dead by paramedics on the scene.
The spokesperson for the local police station, Const Tutu Nkosi, indicated that a case of murder had been opened.
She told Mpumalanga News that a post-mortem had been conducted and that they were waiting for the results.
Even though the police were still continuing with their investigation into the matter, this newspaper learnt that an 18-year-old man had been arrested in connection with the incident and was expected to appear in the Barberton Magistrate’s Court for his bail application.
This incident had not only left the community in shock but also increased fears and rumours of cult worship.
There have been several incidents such as this and community members say rape cases have also increased.
The South African National Civil Organisation (Sanco) raised a serious concern regarding the ever-escalating levels of crime, especially murder.
The subregion secretary, Mr Lucky Motha said,
“This was the second incident which occured within a short space of time. I think it’s about time that community members start paying specific attended and cooperate with the Community Policing Forum, (CPF) and the police.
Let me also indicate, that for the record Sanco is not happy with the manner in which the CPF structures are operating.
They are just there in name,” he said.
This publication also contacted the subregional chairperson of CPF, Mr James Fakude
“I don’t understand what he is talking about and it’s not true that we are not visible.
“He must not use the CPF to score political points or to campaign. Every member is involved and we patrol daily and every weekend we go out in full force. Our CPF is known for being the best when it comes to patrolling as we also work with the SAPS and traffic officials during road- blocks.”
