EFF’s Buthane: ‘Arrests are politically motivated’
In an exclusive interview with BONUS, Buthane says he sees the arrests as scare tactics
POLOKWANE – EFF Provincial Chairperson, Jossey Buthane believes his two arrests in recent weeks were politically motivated and an attempt to stop the EFF from carrying out civil arrests.
Buthane was arrested twice in Seshego on similar charges said to have happened during protests in the area.
Read more: Seshego unrest: Buthane, Mamabolo back in court in March as residents vow to ensure order
He, alongside members of other political parties and residents of Seshego first took to the streets on Sunday, 12 January to look for suspected gangsters involved in the murder of 17-year-old Thorisho Kgomo, who was stabbed at a New Year’s crossover event.
Read more: [WATCH] Enough is enough: Seshego residents take action
He later succumbed to his injuries in hospital a few days later.
A meeting between the EFF and the community was called to find solutions to solve crime in the area, but it eventually turned into a manhunt and mob justice followed.
Buthane along with the ANC’s Boy Mamabolo were arrested the following day on charges of theft and malicious damage to property.
Six days later, Buthane was arrested again, this time on charges of malicious damage to property, attempted murder, kidnapping and theft.
In an exclusive interview with BONUS, Buthane explained that his second arrest raised an alarm as he says he was kept in the cells unlawfully for three days before appearing in court.
“I believe these arrests are politically motivated. I was arrested despite a police official stating on record that I was not at the scene of the said crimes. How they could still arrest me, after a statement was made by an official is the real question here.”
Buthane believes the arrests are scare tactics meant to stop the EFF from conducting civil arrests.
He added that despite those arrested being released the same day, the EFF will continue tackling crime and gangsterism in the area until something is done about it. “We believe in a crime-free society. There is no way we will allow a group of teenagers to terrorise and commit various crimes in our society.”
The Provincial SAPS Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nneke Ledwaba strongly condemned the conduct of those who take the law into their own hands.
“People wanting to assist the police in fighting crime must do so legally. Anyone who commits a crime in the name of assisting the police, will be arrested regardless of his or her status in society.”
