The speedy response and immediate action taken by members from the Uitenhage K9 and SAPS Kwanobuhle led to one man's life being saved from an angry community and the arrest of two suspects.

According to police information, the group of angry community members severely assaulted two men, after accusing them of stealing. Whilst the incident was still happening, SAPS Kwanobuhle and Uitenhage K9 were notified and the members responded immediately. Police found two males lying tied up in Alexander Road, Area 11 at 09:55 on Thursday, 7 April 2022. It is further alleged that the group approached SAPS members and attempted to prevent police officers from removing the victims to receive the necessary medical attention. Bricks and stones were thrown at the police officials and their SAPS vehicles. Members managed to speed off from the scene with the injured, whilst the other SAPS members successfully apprehended two men on charges ranging from public violence, assault on police officers, obstruction of justice and damage to state property. The two suspects (ages 28 and 36) are due to appear in the Kwanobuhle magistrate’s court on Monday, 11 April 2022, on the said charges.

Police strongly condemned these actions taken by the community members, as they were taking the law into their own hands. Police are appealing to the community to refrain from actions like this and to rather report the cases to the police for thorough investigation.

Both victims were hospitalized but sadly, one male (35) succumbed from his injuries. The name of the deceased will be released once formal identification was completed. A case of murder was opened and all possible leads will be followed up on to bring those involved to book.

Investigations are continuing.

Source: South African Police Service