Three people have been detained by police following the death of a Malawian man in the Joburg CBD, while a manhunt is underway to locate the rest of the mob involved in the man’s death.
It is believed that the man was killed after falling victim to mob justice at about 4am at a block of flats on the corner of Eloff and Salisbury streets.
According to reports, Johannesburg Central police spokesman Warrant Officer Xoli Mbele said that the man was visiting his brother at the block of flats.
Mbele told IOL, “The motive is unclear but it has been alleged that the man stole a cellphone from someone in the flats. But no one has come forward to say it was their phone stolen, so we can’t confirm this.”
Four security guards attempted to save the man, however, the mob attacked the guards as well. The victim was allegedly beaten with sticks and stones. The guards called the police to the scene and the victim of the mob justice was declared dead at the scene.
Mbele told IOL that all who were involved, including those living in the flats, are Malawians. Three were arrested in connection with the murder.
Mbele further stated that members of the community recognised those involved and described them to he police. “We are hoping that the three men who were arrested will lead us to the others. A manhunt is under way for other suspects who took part,” he said.
