“The ANC cannot support any acts of violence or the destruction of property.”
The African National Congress (ANC) in Kokstad has distanced itself from on-going community unrest linked to the search for a missing 7 years old child Lathitha Mtolo after several houses were burned in acts of vigilante violence.
Earlier this week, ANC members had joined community members in assisting with the search. However, the party has since withdrawn its support after tensions escalated and residents allegedly burned at least four houses since Tuesday. Speaking on behalf of the ANC, RTT member Ntobeko Mavuka said the organisation cannot support actions that involve residents taking the law into their own hands. “The ANC cannot support any acts of violence or the destruction of property. While we share the pain of the family and the community regarding the missing child, it is against the principles of our organisation for communities to take the law into their own hands,” said Mavuka.
Meanwhile, the South African Police Service confirmed that a suspect who had appeared in court in connection with the matter was released due to insufficient evidence. Kokstad Police Station Commander Ralph Ruiters said police noted J88 form on the suspect docket. “The suspect was released due to insufficient evidence at this stage. It was also noted in the docket that he had injuries. However, I cannot confirm whether these injuries were inflicted by members of the community or by police,” said Ruiters.
Police also confirmed that three other individuals have been identified as persons of interest after being mentioned by the initial suspect during questioning, before the claims of being threatened. “Yes the suspect did mention three other suspects, although he later claimed that he was being threatened,” said Ruiters. He also confirmed that the four houses that got burnt are the homes/ houses of the suspects.
Authorities further confirmed that a missing person case has been opened and investigators are also exploring the possibility of kidnapping as part of the on-going investigation. Police say they remain committed to finding the missing child and have urged residents to cooperate with authorities.
Meanwhile, the Mayor of the Greater Kokstad Local Municipality, Lwanda Madikizela, has appealed for calm in the community. “We understand the frustration and pain felt by the community, but we urge residents not to jeopardise the investigation. Law enforcement authorities are working around the clock to find the child and bring those responsible to justice,” said Madikizela.
Despite the appeals for calm, tensions remained high on Wednesday night as groups of residents gathered in the area. Police reportedly had to intervene to disperse crowds, causing disruptions throughout the night.
At this stage, authorities have not confirmed whether any injuries or arrest occurred during the unrest.
The family of the missing child has expressed their desperation for answers, saying they are hoping for closure as the search continues. Police have reiterated that investigations remain on-going and have urged anyone with information to come forward.
