Police arrest several suspects for looting as nationwide marches remain largely peaceful
The South African Police Service has arrested several people for looting and attempted looting during nationwide marches, while authorities say most demonstrations have remained peaceful under heightened security.
The police have arrested several people in connection with looting and attempted looting reported in various parts of the country as law enforcement continues to monitor nationwide marches.
According to the South African Government News Agency, police said the demonstrations have remained largely peaceful despite isolated incidents of criminality.
Police have maintained heightened deployments across the country to protect public safety, businesses and critical infrastructure, while ensuring law and order.
“Members deployed across the country have been instructed to act swiftly and decisively against anyone who engages in criminal activities, including looting, attempted looting, public violence, malicious damage to property, intimidation or any other unlawful conduct,” said Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia.
He urged South Africans to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly and ensure demonstrations remain peaceful and lawful.
“Those who choose to exploit the marches to commit criminal acts will face the full might of the law. Police will continue to identify, arrest and prosecute all those responsible for criminal conduct,” Cachalia said.
On Monday evening, National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) chairperson Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili warned that law enforcement agencies were prepared to respond swiftly, proportionately and within the confines of the law should criminal activity occur.
She said specialised operational units had been placed on standby, while the Air Wing was ready to provide aerial surveillance and operational support where needed.
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Mosikili warned anyone intending to break the law not to “test the resolve of the State”.
“To those who intend to demonstrate peacefully, we assure you that your constitutional rights will be protected. To every South African, be confident that your safety remains our highest priority,” she said.
She added that contingency plans had been tested and that law enforcement agencies were fully prepared.
Mosikili also reminded the public that dangerous weapons, including firearms, knives and traditional weapons, are prohibited at public demonstrations.
“There is a clear distinction between exercising democratic rights and committing criminal offences. Anyone who crosses that line must expect the full and immediate consequences of the law,” she said.
