THREE vigilantism suspects, aged between 19 and 23-years-old, appeared in the Nsimbini Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 20 June after a man that they assaulted, who they suspected stole from them, died.
The community is urged not to take the law into its own hands as there are severe repercussions for such acts.
“It is alleged on Sunday, 16 June Sphamandla Hlengwa (30) was at his work place when he was confronted by three known men who suspected him of stealing some valuable items from one of them,” said provincial SAPS spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbele.
“It is alleged that the men took Hlengwa to a certain house in Adams Mission where he was severely assaulted. One of the suspects left to his house to sleep, leaving the victim behind with the other two suspects. After a short while he received a call from one of the suspects informing him that Hlengwa passed away and he instructed them to report the matter to the police but they refused.”
Mbele explained that the Hlengwa family got worried when their son did not return home.
“They decided to search for him and also informed the police. Information was received that three known men were seen assaulting Hlengwa. After an intensive investigation the suspects led the police to the dense bushes in Emsahweni near Umkhuphulangwenya River in Adams. The KwaMakhutha police, Durban Search and Rescue together with Metro Police Search and Rescue recovered the body,” said Mbele.
The three suspects were formally charged with kidnapping and murder.
The South African Police Service appeals to residents not to take the law into their own hands as acts of vigilantism will not be tolerated in the province. Anyone who may have information to share about any criminal activities, can contact their local police station or Crime Stop on 086-001-0111.
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