The South African Police Service (SAPS) held a meeting with foreign nationals at the Ladysmith Town Hall today (July 23) following recent incidents in which tuck shops were set alight.

The meeting was attended by Ladysmith Station Commander Brigadier TM Mngadi, Lieutenant Colonel XI Khanyi from Uthukela District SAPS, Colonel Ramlagan and other SAPS officials.

The purpose was to engage with the affected business owners, address their concerns, and encourage co-operation between the police and the community.

Police call for co-operation

During the meeting, police urged the attendees to work closely with them and report those responsible for the attacks on tuck shops owned by foreign nationals.

Police made it clear that while members of the public have the constitutional right to gather and protest peacefully, they are not permitted to conduct their own operations by stopping foreign nationals, demanding to see their immigration documents or forcing businesses to close. The SAPS encouraged those affected to report such incidents so they can investigate and take the necessary legal action.

Lt Col Khanyi acknowledged the challenges faced by the police, saying that the number of officers is small compared to the population of Ladysmith. However, he assured those present that the SAPS continues to do everything possible to prevent crime and respond to incidents.

Business owners voice their concerns

Foreign nationals who own tuck shops expressed concern over the recent attacks, saying the burning of shops and the closure of their businesses has left many without an income.

They appealed to the SAPS to arrest those responsible, saying they are now struggling to support themselves and their families because they are unable to trade.

The business owners said the ongoing incidents have created fear within their community and have affected their livelihoods.

SAPS acknowledges difficult situation

Brigadier Mngadi acknowledged the difficult position facing both the police and business owners.

He said the SAPS could not instruct business owners to reopen their shops because the police could not guarantee their safety at all times should further attacks occur. At the same time, he said the police could also not advise them to remain closed because many depend on their businesses for survival.

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