By Everson Luhanga
Four people have become the latest victims of rampant crime in Gauteng’s crime-ridden township of Diepsloot.
The four victims – Johannes Mabe, Justice Motlhale and Tshifivha Mukhovha including one anti-crime activist – Abel Sithole – in Diepsloot were killed in various locations on Saturday night.
Justice Motlhale, 35, was shot in the chest around 9 pm by unknown suspects while leaving a tavern and died at the scene.
Johannes Mabe, 53, was shot in the chest around 11pm by four unknown suspects during a robbery while he was with friends inside his yard .
Tshifivha Mukhovha, 45, was shot by unknown suspects in the chest while driving his car on the street.
Abel Sithole, 44, was shot by ten unknown suspects while patrolling Extension 13.
Known on the streets of Diepsloot as Absa, Sithole was ambushed by a group of more than 10 people on Saturday night.
In an internal police communication statement, officials say the deceased was shot by ten unknown suspects while patrolling Extension 13. The statement also said that according to the deceased’s crew, they were chasing after the ten suspects who allegedly robbed people in the area.
“The deceased Abel Sithole aka Absa was the subject of an investigation into vigilante killings that occurred late last year in Diepsloot.
“Absa was the first person who was arrested by the police and later released the time Diepsloot community members went on a rampage hunting down suspected criminals and burning them alive. He was arrested, accused of being one of the leaders who orchestrated the killing of the seven suspected criminals,” the police said.
A community member who raised an alarm after hearing gunshots sent a message in a community WhatsApp chat group requesting police assistance.
Speaking to Scrolla.Africa, Vincent Ndou said: “This is totally unacceptable. Something must be done. We can’t live like chickens in the cage, waiting for your day to be killed.”
He said besides the government’s efforts to beef up security by sending more police and soldiers to the area, the township has remained a war zone.
“We have never tasted peace in this township. We are dying like chickens,” said Ndou.
Another community leader, Loyiso Toyiya, said they are still calling on President Cyril Ramaphosa to visit their township and witness how they are dodging bullets every weekend.
Last year, the Diepsloot Community Forum led several marches to the local police station.
Three of its leaders were arrested for inciting public violence and damage to property.
In November last year, seven suspected criminals were apprehended, beaten and burned alive.
Pictured above: Diepsloot community members gather at the house of anti-crime activist Abel Sithole, aka Absa.
Image Source: Supplied
