Nelspruit: 30 January 2024 - The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly condemned acts of vigilantism that took place at Phiva near Kamhlushwa yesterday, 29 January 2024 and today, Tuesday 30 January 2024. The General has also called upon community members to engage the Police when they suspect that a crime has been committed.
According to a report, community members from Phiva (under Kamhlushwa Policing Precinct) took to the streets and reportedly torched some houses, an office for Sector crime Forum, as well as a patrol vehicle belonging to Sector Crime Forum at Phiva. It is worth noting that these unlawful acts began with an incident in which a 28-year-old man was attacked after allegations that he was intending to steal on Monday, 29 January 2024. It is further reported that after the man was severely assaulted, he was taken for medical treatment but sadly died on arrival in hospital.
Thereafter, it is reported that other community members mobilised then destructed some properties and the actions are believed to be some kind of revenge attack. As a result, Public Order Policing (POP) members in conjunction with members from Kamhlushwa SAPS came on board to maintain high visibility in the area. The situation is currently under control. Investigations into the murder as well as other related incidents are underway and no one has been arrested so far. Police urge anyone with information that may assist in the investigation to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has further called for calm so as to prevent further injuries, damages and possible fatalities meanwhile Police will act decisively against anyone found breaking the law.