DA in call to act against vigilantism

THE DA in Gauteng yesterday urged the ANC-run provincial government to take action against vigilantism after a man was found in a field three days after he was attacked.

DA Gauteng leader John Moodey said the province was facing record high crime rates, and the provincial government was acting too slowly.

“However, citizens must not allow their frustration to overshadow the principles of justice and fairness.

“If a person stands accused of a crime, he or she must be tried in a court of law where he or she must be afforded the opportunity to make his or her case. Anything short of that denies a person their fundamental rights to a fair trial,” Moodey said.

He referred to an incident in which a man was badly beaten and found in a field three days after having been the victim of vigilantism in Salvokop, Pretoria.

“He was found by community members who formed a search party after the SAPS failed to search for the man following the attack.

“I will write to the MEC of community safety to enquire what measures her department has in place to deal with mob justice.

“Vigilantism cannot be tolerated as the state is the only legitimate user of force.

“Neither can we allow a situation where people turn to mob justice because they are frustrated with poor policing by the SAPS.”

Moodey said it was reported in the media yesterday that the mob had used rocks and sjamboks during the assault, and traces of the blood spilt during the attack were still visible on the pavement.

“According to local community members, they know who the alleged assailants are.

“Community members have taken issue with the fact that the SAPS have not acted against these alleged assailants, who are still free to roam the community,” he added. – ANA