The Portfolio Committee on Police has called on angry residents not to resort to mob justice, but allow the police to do their job.
This comes after residents in Reiger Park expressed their intention to take the law into their own hands in dealing with the person suspected of being responsible for the disappearance of a three year old boy. A body, fitting the description of the missing boy, was found on Saturday. DNA tests are being carried out to determine the identity of the corpse, which was partially burnt.
“The Committee recognises the seriousness of these incidents and the pain they bring to family members and loved ones but taking the law into your own hands is not advisable. Police are there to investigate such cases. We appeal that our people should allow the police to do their job,” said Committee Chairperson, Mr Francois Beukman.
The Committee also asked for restraint from residents of Hankey, near Port Elizabeth, where seven people arrested in connection with the murder and rape of a six year old girl and her aunt in Hankey are expected to apply for bail today. The community last week handed in a petition at the local Magistrate’s Court demanding the suspects not be granted bail.
Mr Beukman reiterated the Committee’s concern regarding the spate of horrendous crimes that have gripped communities across the country. He said these were unacceptable and that SAPS ought to move with speed in investigating and resolving these crimes.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Temba Gubula
Tel: 021 403 8307
Cell: 078 735 8809
E-mail: tgubula@parliament.gov.za
