Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr. Jackie Macie says the act of vigilantism is crime, and those who commit it should be treated as criminals.
This follows after two people were killed and torched in an alleged mob justice incident that occurred in Barberton yesterday, 25 August 2025. The incidents happened in separate areas and times.
It is alleged that both deceased individuals were suspected by some community members of being involved in a series of house robberies in the area.
The MEC says although community involvement in the fight against crime is always encouraged by government, mob justice will never be accepted.
“Taking law into your own hands as communities can never be tolerated in this country. That is why we have courts all over the country, your role as communities is to bring evidence forward and testify against those suspected to secure a sentence that will put them behind bars.
“Vigilantism is a crime, and once you commit it, then you become equally a criminal, and unfortunately police will do their work and put you behind bars too.
Let us not be discouraged to report those causing troubles in our communities. Continue to work with the police and community forums to bring about stability and a crime free community,” he said.
The MEC in the meantime calls for calm from the community of Barberton whilst police continue to do their investigations on the incidences.
Ends.
Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison.
