By: Natasha Archary
The situation in Diepsloot, Johannesburg is dire as angry residents continue violent protests over the spate of crime in the area.
Police have confirmed that one man was killed in an apparent mob justice incident on Wednesday night. A group from the community allegedly stormed the man’s home, stoning him before setting him alight.
The victim, identified as Elvis Nyathi is said to be a Zimbabwean national, accused of criminal activity by the community.
His wife Nomsa Tshuma spoke to members of the media recounting how they heard banging in the middle of the night with people screaming for them to come out.
“They kept shouting show us your passports. Why are you hiding. Where are the guns?”
The widow shared with media
Residents were protesting against the lack of policing and crime which they claim goes unnoticed by officials.
This after 7 people were murdered in Diepsloot over the weekend, sparking the unrest. Four people have since been arrested in connection to the murders but residents say this isn’t enough.
Community members are growing tired of Police Minister, Bheki Cele’s “empty promises”.
Cele has assured the residents of Diepsloot that a tactical response team known as ‘Amaberete’ will be deployed to the area to restore order.
But the residents say they are tired of the Police Minister’s empty promises and have taken matters into their own hands.
Operation Dudula leader, Nhlanhla Lux was on the ground with the protesters.
Meanwhile, Cele is expected to address the community on Friday with a plan to manage the crime and allegations against undocumented foreign nationals in the area.
The minister has assured the residents that 50 police officers and 16 more vehicles will be reserved for Diepsloot.
