7 arrested in Masiphumelele mob attack released on R500 bail each
The group was arrested following a spate of vigilante killings in the township in the last two weeks.
MASIPHUMELELE - Seven people arrested in connection with a mob attack in Masiphumelele have been released on bail of R500 each in the Simon's Town Magistrates Court.
The group was arrested following a spate of vigilante killings in the township in the last two weeks.
The mob justice victims were accused of rape, theft and drug dealing.
Residents say a lack of adequate policing has driven them to take the law into their own hands.
Protests erupted early this morning ahead of the court appearance of the seven Masiphumelele residents.
Police are asking for calm from #Masiphumelele residents. MM pic.twitter.com/chAub8QYY6
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) September 29, 2015
The situation in Masiphumelele remains volatile following a morning of violent demonstrations.
Kommetjie Road outside the community is littered with remains of burnt rubble, spent tear gas canisters and rubber bullets.
The community demonstrated in support of the seven alleged mob attack suspects being released on bail.
#Masiphumelele A man has been injured after he was hit by a tear gas canister. Receiving medical treatment. LI pic.twitter.com/pbNdZ44WMR
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) September 29, 2015
However, the community is now up in arms following the arrest of a further five men this morning for public violence.
#Masiphumelele Just 1 of scores of rubber bullets that have been fired. Thick smoke hangs over the area. LI pic.twitter.com/ciNGqP9JRH
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) September 29, 2015
Police remain on the scene with additional teams on standby.
