Publication

This report explores the complexities influencing the development of and reaction to South Africa's most popular vigilante group, Mapogo. It provides insight into the organization from perspectives offered by those living and working in the Northern Province, including Mapogo members, traditional leaders, political, civic and trade union leaders as well as the policing authorities and victims of Mapogo. It examines the political and social context from which Mapogo has emerged, how the organization was set up, who was involved and key factors that have influenced its development. The report explores how the criminal justice system is coping with violence in the Northern Province and the reasons why people take the law into their own hands.