AKA wants justice for Nathaniel Julies: What explanation is there for killing him in cold blood?

South African celebrities have joined the masses in demanding justice for 16-year-old slain Eldorado Park teenager Nathaniel Julies.

TimesLIVE reported that Nathaniel was shot and died on Wednesday. The death of the 16-year-old, who had Down syndrome, has led to clashes between police and community members angered by his death.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) confirmed that a probe has been launched into Nathaniel's death. Gauteng Premier David Makhura said the boy was killed in the crossfire of a shoot-out between the SA police and a gang in the area.

Rapper AKA lashed out at the murder of the teen, asking police what explanation they could possibly have to justify why he was shot and killed.

He reminded police that their job is to protect and not harm people.

“What explanation is there for killing this child in cold blood, in the street like his life is worth absolutely nothing? SAPS you are supposed to protect these lives, not take them away. God bless Nathaniel Julies and his family,” the rapper wrote on Twitter.

Radio and TV personality Penny Lebyane also expressed her heartbreak at the murder, calling for accountability by the police.

“Not our children please. Heads must roll. My thoughts and prayers are with family, especially his mother and father, may God almighty give you strength and the Holy Spirit hold you close during this difficult time,” Penny said.

Here are some of the other celebrity reactions below.