After the case against Thabang Motshabi for kidnapping and assault was postponed yesterday (21 October) in Bloemhof, community members started to engage in public violence.
Motshabi is one of 22 community members that were recently arrested and appeared in the Bloemhof Magistrate’s Court.
After his appearance, a group of community members headed to a local supermarket and allegedly attempted to force the manager to close the supermarket.
The police responded to the unrest and used stun grenades to disperse the crowd. Brigadier Mokgwabone, NW Police spokesperson said “Thereafter, the N12 road was barricaded with various objects. Consequently, two trucks and a Sedan’s windscreens were damaged due to stones that were thrown at passing vehicles. As a result, and for the safety of motorists and the public, traffic was diverted to alternative roads”.
Later in the evening, a report was received that a truck driver was allegedly robbed of his wallet, cell phone, and the truck’s key. However, Brigadier Mokgwabone says the truck was later towed away.
Mokgwabone said the N12 was opened earlier today but shortly afterward, it was closed again. “We decided to close a portion of the N12, towards the entrance to Boitumelong as small groupings were formed”, said Mokgwabone. However, the Police still strongly encourage motorists to be cautious on the N12 and R34 (between Schweizer-Reneke and Bloemhof) roads.
“Police are maintaining their presence in the area and also monitoring the situation in Phaposane village near Ganyesa where members of the community blocked the road yesterday demanding water. It was during this illegal activity that a police vehicle that was going to attend to a complaint was pelted with stones and damaged,” said Brigadier Mokgwabone.
NW Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane condemns public acts that were conducted in Bloemhof. She also urges the community to refrain from damaging essential infrastructure and disturbing services and schooling.
