OR Tambo mob justice: One dead, two injured in Qunu

A 30-year-old man has been killed and two others seriously assaulted and burned in a violent incident in the OR Tambo District, with police condemning what appears to be a brutal act of mob justice.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the incident took place at Empa locality in the Qunu Administrative Area on Tuesday, 7 April 2026, at around 11:20.

Accusations spark deadly violence

Police say the three victims were accused by members of the community of stealing electricity cables.

It is alleged that the situation escalated into violence, resulting in the murder of one man and the assault and burning of his two companions. The exact circumstances surrounding how the violence unfolded remain under investigation.

Authorities have not released the identities of the victims, and the condition of the two injured individuals has not yet been confirmed.

Police condemn attack

OR Tambo District Commissioner, Major General Norman Modishana, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a serious criminal act.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns around vigilantism, where communities take the law into their own hands instead of reporting suspected crimes through legal channels.

Under South African law, acts of mob justice are treated as criminal offences, regardless of the allegations against the victims.

Appeal for information

Police are urging anyone with information that could assist in identifying and arresting those responsible to come forward.

Members of the public can contact Bityi Police Detectives’ Head, Captain Mlilo, on 083 688 6571. Information can also be shared via Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App.

Ongoing investigation

A case of murder and attempted murder is expected to be investigated as police work to establish the full details of what happened.

Authorities have reiterated that communities