3 Vigilantes in court for brutal assault and murder of suspect, Durban

South African Police Service

3 Vigilantes in court for brutal assault and murder of suspect, Durban
3 Vigilantes in court for brutal assault and murder of suspect, Durban

Three vigilantism suspects aged between 19 and 23 are appearing on 20 June 2019, in the Nsimbini Magistrates’ Court. It is alleged on 16 June 2019, Sphamandla Hlengwa (30) was at his work place when he was confronted by three known men who suspected him of stealing some valuable items from one of them.

It is alleged that the men took Hlengwa to a certain house in Adams Mission where he was severely assaulted. One of the suspects left to his house to sleep leaving the victim behind with the other two suspects. After a short while he received a call from one of the suspects informing him that Hlengwa passed away and he instructed them to report the matter to the police but they refused.

Hlengwa family got worried when their son did not returned home. They decided to search for him and also informed the police. Information was received that three known men were seen assaulting Hlengwa.

After an intensive investigation the suspects led the police to the dense bushes in Emshadweni near Um Khuphula Ngwenya River in Adams. The KwaMakhutha police, Durban Search and Rescue together with Metro Police Search and Rescue recovered the body.

The three suspects were formally charged with kidnapping and murder.

We are appealing to community members not to take law into their own hands, the acts of vigilantism will not be tolerated in our province. Anyone who may have information to share about any criminal activities should contact their local police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

South Africa Today – South Africa News

SOURCESouth African Police Service