NECKLACING Meaning and
Definition
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Necklacing is a term that refers to a form of extrajudicial punishment and horrific act of violence involving the execution of individuals by placing a rubber tire filled with flammable substances around their necks and setting it on fire. The act is commonly associated with mob justice and has been used as a means of punishing individuals accused of criminal activities, particularly in certain regions where law enforcement may be weak or non-existent.
Often considered a brutal and inhumane method, necklacing results in excruciating pain for the victim, as the burning rubber and flammable materials cause severe and potentially fatal injuries. The intention behind necklacing is to instill fear within a community and deter others from engaging in criminal behavior. Notably, it is characterized by its public nature, as the act is often performed in front of a crowd, functioning as a form of public execution.
The term "necklacing" originated and gained notoriety primarily during the late 20th century, particularly in South African townships during the apartheid era. The technique was employed against individuals accused of being informants or collaborators with the oppressive regime. Although its prevalence has significantly diminished over time, instances of necklacing still occur in some regions marked by social unrest or vigilantism.
In summary, necklacing can be defined as a barbaric form of punishment involving the execution of individuals by igniting a tire filled with flammable substances around their neck. It is associated with mob justice, public execution, and is intended to cause extreme pain and fear.
Etymology of NECKLACING
The word "necklacing" originated in the context of a brutal form of execution that gained prominence during the 1980s and 1990s in South Africa. It refers to the act of placing a tire soaked in petrol (gasoline) around a person's neck and setting it alight, causing severe burns and ultimately leading to death.
The term "necklacing" is a combination of two words. "Neck" refers to the part of the body connecting the head to the torso, while "lace" denotes tying or fastening. Together, "necklacing" forms a descriptive term that vividly represents the method used in this particular form of execution. It is important to note that "necklacing" is a highly controversial and inhumane act that gained notoriety during a specific era and is not commonly used or associated with any other context.
