The South African Police Service (SAPS) has condemned acts of vigilantism following the murder of an unidentified man in Khayelitsha yesterday.

Police spokesperson FC Van Wyk says the man’s lifeless body was discovered at Level Two, Walter Sisulu Street, Lingelethu-West.

“The deceased was found lying in the street on his side with multiple blunt force trauma all over his body and head. A tyre with steel wire was also found on the scene.”

While the circumstances around the brutal attack remains unknown, SAPS is appealing to the community to avoid taking matters into their own hands, stressing that such acts undermines the justice system and increases the risk of violence.

“SAPS condemns vigilantism in the strongest possible terms. Acts of mob justice are criminal and pose a direct threat to the safety and stability of our communities. No individual or group has the authority to take the law into their own hands, regardless of the circumstances.”

Van Wyk says police are actively investigating the murder.

“Detectives are following all available leads to identify the victims and trace those responsible for this brutal crime.”

The public is urged to share any information that may assist the police in tracking down those involved in the fatal attack.

“Information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or through the MySAPS mobile application. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.”