Protesters allegedly torch houses, office and patrol vehicle in Phiva
Some community members protested against the policing forum following the death of a man who was suspected of stealing.
The Mpumalanga SAPS stated that on Monday and Tuesday, January 29 and 30, some community members had taken to the streets and reportedly torched some houses, as well as an office and a patrol vehicle belonging to the sector crime forum in Phiva, outside KaMhlushwa.
According to some reports, the community members were protesting against the policing forum following the death of a man.
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A provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said, “It is worth noting that these unlawful acts began with an incident in which a 28-year-old man was attacked after allegations that he was intending to steal on Monday January 29. It is further reported that after the man had been severely assaulted, he was taken for medical treatment, but died on arrival at hospital. Thereafter, it is reported that other community members mobilised and destroyed some properties. These actions are believed to be some kind of revenge attack. As a result, some Public Order Policing members, in conjunction with some members of the KaMhlushwa SAPS, came on board to maintain high visibility in the area. The situation is currently under control.”
The provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, has called for calm so as to prevent some injuries, damages and possible fatalities.
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On Wednesday January 30, Mdhuli said the investigations into the murder and other related incidents are under way, but no one has been arrested so far. The police urge anyone with information that may assist in the investigation to call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or to send information via the My SAPS app. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
