Vigilantism and mob justice will not be tolerated, say Police, after the battered body of a 42-year-old man was found earlier this week in Hood Street, Forest Village, Eerste River.

The deceased was allegedly assaulted by community members on Tuesday after a three-year-old toddler was found half-naked and bleeding in the wooded area next to Hood Street. The toddler was kidnapped earlier that morning and it is alleged the deceased raped her, after which the community took matters into their own hands.

Murder investigation

According to Captain FC van Wyk, police spokesperson, Kleinvlei police have launched a murder investigation following the discovery of the body of a 42-year-old man at approximately 17:30.

“The victim was found with multiple injuries to the head. Preliminary indications suggest that the incident is linked to a kidnapping and alleged rape of a three-year-old girl. According to reports, the child was reported missing by her father to Kleinvlei police. She was later found in Forrest Drive when people heard her screaming.

“Circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation. The three-year-old child was taken to a nearby medical facility for examination. This case will be transferred to the Kuilsrivier Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit for further investigation. Investigations continue,” says Van Wyk.

Vigilantism

Van Wyk further added the police condemns vigilantism in the strongest possible terms.

“Acts of mob justice are criminal and pose a direct threat to the safety and stability of our communities. No individual or group has the authority to take the law into their own hands, regardless of the circumstances. Such actions undermine the justice system and fuel further violence. Detectives are following all available leads to trace those responsible for the murder. We urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that could assist the investigation to contact the police immediately,” says Van Wyk.

Information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS mobile application. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.

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