The body of a man was discovered early on Sunday morning on the corner of Walter Sisulu and Elizabeth streets.
At around 02:30 on September 21 police were called to the scene, where they found the badly bruised and wounded body.
The man is unknown, as police could not find any identification. His age is also unknown, he is estimated to be between 20 and 30 years of age.
As police investigated the scene, they found a witness who reported that the man was beaten to death by members of the community.
The crime, for which the deceased was allegedly punished, is unknown and police are now investigating a case of murder.
“We must warn the public not to take the law into their own hands,” said Capt Eddie Hall, spokesperson for Witbank SAPS.
He explained that taking a life, even that of a criminal, can never be justified.
“The law does permit you as a civilian to make a civil arrest once you catch the perpetrator in the act,” Hall further explained. “You are allowed to use necessary force to apprehend the suspect, but then it is not up to you to punish him for the crime.”
Hall said that once a civil arrest has been made, the suspect must be handed over to the police.
*To report a crime contact the Witbank Police Station on 013 655 5052.
