Three beaten to death after fleeing burning house

THREE people were beaten to death after fleeing from a burning house last night in the latest mob justice attack to take place in Port Elizabeth.

According to police, a mob of about 300 residents from Kwanoxolo in Bethelsdorp set a house alight trapping three people inside. The victims, two 17-year-olds and a 22-year-old,  managed to flee the house but on escaping, angry residents beat them to death.

According to police, none of the men have yet been linked to any crime.

Police and emergency service workers were also attacked on the scene prompting them to withdraw and wait for backup.

“Angry residents attempted to torch the police cars while throwing stones at the officers,” police spokesman Warrant Officer Alwin Labans said.

“There is nothing that suggests these men are linked to any crime in the area. A team is currently following up on information.”

No arrests have been made. - Gareth Wilson