Central SA
Police says false information may lead to mob justice─── 08:50 Thu, 02 Mar 2023
The police in the North West is concerned about the circulation of false information and a photograph of a suspect doing the rounds on social media, saying it can incite violence and mob justice.
This follows an incident in which an 11-year-old girl from Brits was allegedly kidnapped and raped in Maboloka Village near Letlhabile on Saturday, 18 February 2023.
A spokesperson for the police, Sabata Mokgwabone, says a search for both the girl and the suspect was launched.
"While the girl was found on Sunday morning, 19 February 2023, the suspect ran into the bushes after realising that the police were on his heels. That was after various police units, including the air wing and mounted unit, as well as various security companies and civil organisations participated in the search operation.
"The police have been in close contact with the girl's family and regular feedback is constantly provided," says Mokgwabone.
"We want to warn the public that no person is allowed to incite public violence by circulating false information about an alleged suspect, with his photograph, in any manner, including publishing it. This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable and should be discouraged as it is likely to incite violence, including mob justice attacks. No amount of intimidation, lawlessness or brazen disrespect for the rule of law will distract the police from enforcing the law."
