The South African Police Service (SAPS) has strongly condemned a series of violent killings in the Enkandla informal settlement in Harare, Khayelitsha.
Khayelitsha SAPS condemns mob justice after deadly weekend
Police believe these murders are linked to vigilante-style attacks, often called “mob justice,” where groups of people take the law into their own hands.
According to Western Cape police spokesperson Colonel André Traut, officers responded to multiple crime scenes in the early hours of Monday, 29 September 2025.
At the first scene, the body of a man was found burnt beyond recognition. Soon after, two more charred bodies were discovered in the same area.
Later, around 02:00 (SAST), police found the body of a 30-year-old man with multiple stab wounds.
Police confirmed that all four men were declared dead at the scene by medical personnel. Investigations are underway, but SAPS believes these killings were vigilante-style attacks carried out by community members.
Colonel Traut said:
“The South African Police Service strongly condemns these violent acts, which bear the hallmarks of vigilante killings. Taking the law into one’s own hands is a criminal offence and will not be tolerated. Such acts not only undermine the rule of law but also create fear and instability within communities.”
Why vigilante attacks happen in Khayelitsha
Mob justice has been a recurring issue in areas like Enkandla and other parts of Khayelitsha. Studies show that many residents turn to such violence because they feel police are either too slow or ineffective in responding to crime.
High levels of poverty, overcrowding, and unemployment also create frustration. In this environment, people sometimes justify extreme violence against suspected criminals as a way to “protect the community.”
However, this approach is dangerous and unlawful. Innocent people can be targeted, and it leads to cycles of fear and mistrust. A 2015 study on Khayelitsha’s vigilante incidents noted that such acts often emerge from blocked opportunities and inequality, where people feel excluded and powerless.
Past cases include the Enkanini “necklacings”, where suspected criminals were tied up, doused with petrol, and set alight in front of crowds . Such incidents often happen in broad daylight, with large groups of residents watching or even participating.
The SAPS has appealed to residents to report crime through proper channels, such as calling Crime Stop on 08600 10111or using the MySAPS App. They stress that community members must never take justice into their own hands.
“We call on community members to refrain from acts of vigilantism and to report suspected criminal activity through lawful channels,” Colonel Traut said.
“Those responsible for these murders will face the full might of the law.”
The police have increased patrols in Harare and surrounding parts of Khayelitsha to prevent further violence.