Snake Park community angered by death of youngster allegedly killed by police

Heightened tensions between police and Snake Park residents after the killing of Karabo Sabelo Moletsane allegedly by the police triggered questions of excessive police force.

The spiral of events led to road closures calling for justice after the death of the 22-year-old who was allegedly shot in a clash between police and residents last Tuesday.

According to community leader Thokozani Mbatha, the community apprehended a criminal tied to a spate of house robberies in the area.

The police arrived on the scene and took the suspect which angered the community who then threw stones at the police vehicle.

ALSO READ: Grade 11 learner stabbed to death in Protea North

Moletsane, who was in the crowd of residents, was caught in the crossfire when police opened fire to disperse the disgruntled community members.

“The community got angry because we have been reporting these criminals and our cries fell on deaf ears at the police station. We decided to take matters into our own hands and apprehended one of the suspects because we are tired.

“They arrived and with no engagement took the suspect into their custody which tells us that criminals are being protected,” explained Mbatha.

Moletsane was rushed to the hospital where he was declared dead.

A distraught family relative, Hleliwe Machine said, “We are shattered. Karabo’s life was shortened by someone who was meant to serve and protect the community.

“His death has brought many unanswered questions but we want the officer responsible for his death to be arrested. What was the intention of shooting with live ammunition? What happened to using rubber bullets?”

Residents want justice and police to account for his death. They blame the police failure to tackle crime in the area and protection of criminals.

ALSO READ: Distraught family of Protea wants justice after death of their child

“I’m one of the victims of house robberies. These criminals are terrorising us, and they do it knowing they won’t be arrested. We are let down by the police.

“The community caught the criminal, not the police because they are enabling the criminals. Instead they turn around and arrest the patrollers who are fighting this crime,” exclaimed Eunice Mohale.

Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) spokesperson Phaladi Shuping confirmed that Ipid was handling the matter.

“The matter was reported to Ipid, and Ipid took over the docket for investigation. Detailed questions can only be responded to once the investigations are finalised. The docket will be handed over to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision.”