GAUTENG. – This information was revealed by Police Minister Bheki Cele this morning as he delivered his address on incidents of public violence and criminality that have affected the KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng Provinces.

Ministers from the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster met to discuss the reports they have received from the Joints Operations Committee (JOCOM) of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and State Security, which reflects on the incidents of violence and looting.

“As Ministers of this Custer we add our voices to that of our President and the many law abiding and peace-loving South Africans who have strongly condemned lawlessness, violence and destruction that is currently happening in certain areas of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. We call for an immediate end to this violence, looting and the disregard of the law and call for an immediate return to peace and stability.”

Ministers also welcomed the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to the two Provinces.

Cele said that no amount of unhappiness or personal circumstances from people, gives the right to anyone to loot, vandalise and do as they please and break the law.

“We call on the communities to exercise restraint in dealing with the situation and above all ensure that innocent civilians are not harmed. We further urge all communities and groups to reject any call for violence and making this country ungovernable.”

Cele urged anyone who has reliable information to report any acts of violence and intimidation to the SAPS on its toll-free line 08600 10111.

“We caution South Africans to note that the country is facing the COVID-19 pandemic and we are in the third wave which is fuelled by the Delta variant. Law enforcement agencies are also going to ensure the mass adherence to the adjusted alert Level 4 Lockdown Regulations.”