HIS craving for a midnight snack turned sour for an Empangeni thief, who was viciously attacked by an angry mob of neighbours after being caught in the act of stealing sandwiches from a lunchbox.
Waking from his sleep to quench his thirst, a Macekane Reserve resident made his way to the kitchen where he was confronted by the intruder.
Reacting quickly to ensure the safety of his family, the man grabbed the trespasser and pinned him to the ground.
After his wife shouted out for help, virtually the entire street came to their aid within seconds and severely attacked the burglar.
A case of residential burglary and theft was opened at the Empangeni SAPS on Thursday, but a counter charge of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm was laid by the state on behalf of the invader.
The suspect is currently receiving medical attention at Ngwelezana Hospital under guard.
Empangeni SAPS spokesperson, Captain Mbongeni Mdlalose, discouraged any form of vigilantism.
‘A counter case is opened so in the event of death, it is known under which circumstances he died. If he recovers, it is up to him if he will continue with the case or drop the charges.’ said Captain Mdlalose.
‘There are several consequences when the community reacts in this manner and they are urged to avoid any acts of citizen justice because they too will have to face the full wrath of the law,’ he said.
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