Fed-up Gugulethu residents have set alight a man aged 21 who is alleged to be a thief on fire in Europe informal settlement.
The incident happened today Friday 02 December at the footbridge that connects Europe and the Airport Industria.
When Ezitshisayo arrived at the scene, residents said the deceased boy is known. One resident who didn’t want to be named said the deceased was a robber who broke into people’s homes.
“He would steal even clothes on a washing line. We are not surprised that he is dead,” she said.
The mother of the deceased man was also on the scene after she was told that her child is dead. Some residents said the mother knew that her son was a skoli.
“I once saw her wearing a jacket that was stolen by her son. She knew his stealing ways. I don’t feel sorry for her,” said one lady.
The body of the man was burnt beyond recognition. When the Ezitshisayo team arrived at the scene, there was still some smoke coming from the charred body.
There were also wires from the burnt tyres that were used to neckless him.
Police spokeswoman Ndakhe Gwala confirmed the incident. She said Gugulethu SAPS is investigating a murder case.