28 arrests in Diepsloot overnight, mob attack suspects still on the run

This follows the brutal killing Elvis Nyathi, who was set alight by an angry mob searching for illegal foreign nationals in the community on Wednesday night.

Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says the situation was calm on Friday morning following the deployment of specialized units in the area.

Mathe says 28 people have been arrested during Thursday night operations. 

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“The situation has remained relatively calm overnight following the deployment of specialized units and a dedicated detective team in the Diepsloot area.

“I can confirm we’ve arrested 28 people, two for domestic violence, one for drunken driving and the rest were arrested for being the country illegally.”

Mathe says in terms of the deaths that have occurred since last week Wednesday, unfortunately, no arrest has been made including the most recent mob attack that killed Nyathi.

“In terms of the arrest of the four people that died between 30th of March and 4th of April, we haven’t made any arrests. Together with killing Nyati there are no arrests made.

“But we are calling on the community to come forward with information, we know that someone somewhere saw something.” 

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Mathe adds police tactical response teams will continue to be on the ground.

“The teams are joined by a capable detective team that is working around the clock to ensure that we investigate and arrest all criminality that is taking place in the Diepsloot area.”

Police Minister Bheki Cele is expected to return to Diepsloot on Friday.