Mob Justice in Vulnerable Communities

Mob Justice in Vulnerable Communities

“A Cry for Justice: An Exploratory Analysis of Mob Justice in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. A Case of the Umlazi G Section Community”, was the title of Ms Kwanele Madondo’s study for which she received a Master of Social Science.

Mob justice deaths are increasing across South Africa, with at least two daily and a total of 1 202 in 2019/20 and 1 350 in 2020/21. From January to September 2023, 1 016 South Africans lost their lives to mob justice, with the highest numbers in Gauteng (240), KwaZulu-Natal (219), and the Eastern Cape (208).

‘The statistics on mob justice-related activities in KwaZulu-Natal, including Umlazi G Section, highlight the urgent need to address mob justice as a severe crime that fosters a culture of violence and undermines the rule of law, leading to anarchic societies that erode the moral fabric of communities in Umlazi,’ said Madondo.

The study investigated whether mob justice is a sign that the government is failing to adequately protect citizens and the state.

‘My study concluded that in Umlazi, mob justice serves as a way for low-income residents to deal with crime and express their frustration with the political system. This form of justice arises from systemic problems, and unequal security and welfare provision in Black townships,’ said Madondo.

The key findings were that mob justice is linked to high crime rates in Umlazi, leading locals to view it as a way to deter criminals and create fear. Police ineffectiveness was also cited, as residents feel that police aren’t doing enough to keep them safe. They also distrust the justice system, believing it is too lenient on offenders. Poor economic conditions and feelings of marginalisation are driving people to see mob justice as their only option for security and fairness.

‘My most unexpected finding was that women not only support mob justice more than men, likely due to their higher risk of sexual assault, but also actively participate in these acts. Additionally, children are involved, which might be linked to the normalisation of violence,’ said Madondo.

She hopes that the findings will assist various stakeholders, including eThekwini Municipality, government officials, and civil society groups to improve democracy, transitional justice, and public safety.

Her research proved difficult at times as she struggled with imposter syndrome. ‘It made me doubt my abilities and slowed me down; however, I was supported by my supervisor Dr Monique Emser who with her great sense of humour, humility, no-nonsense attitude, and genuine care, made the experience special. She has been incredibly inspiring and motivating. I am truly grateful for her professionalism, her wealth of knowledge, and for challenging and reprimanding me when necessary.’

Emser said, ‘I’m incredibly proud of Kwanele’s achievement, which bears testament to her unwavering dedication and intellectual rigour, particularly in relation to the sensitivity of the topic and her method of inquiry. I have no doubt that she will continue to make a profound impact in her future endeavours.’

Acknowledging her family, Madondo said, ‘thank you for all your support throughout my studies. To my parents, MaMkhize, your strength, love, and prayers have been my rock, and Mnquhe, your sacrifices and guidance have made everything possible. I’m incredibly grateful that God chose you to be my parents. To my amazing siblings, Phiwe, Zama, Nelisiwe, Nokuthula, and Mlungisi your support will forever be valued. I feel blessed to have all of you in my life.’

Madondo’s short-term aspirations do not include furthering her studies: ‘I feel great about this accomplishment and see it as a gateway to many international opportunities. However, despite all the studying, my ultimate aspiration is to become a full-time farmer in crop production, as well as a trader and investor in the financial markets.’

Words: Jennene Naidu

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini