Police arrest 16 suspects in the Springs CBD after alleged looting and public violence
The Springs SAPS says the suspects allegedly looted homes, damaged property and intimidated residents in the Springs CBD.
The Springs SAPS arrested 16 suspects on July 30 for allegedly looting houses, damaging property and forcing residents to vacate their homes.
According to local police spokesperson Sergeant Charity Zwane, the Springs SAPS responded to a complaint of public violence on 4th Street in the Springs CBD.
“Upon arrival, they encountered a large group of people moving through the area and allegedly looting houses, damaging property, forcing residents to vacate their homes, demanding passports and threatening residents.
Police observed several suspects carrying household goods, furniture, mattresses, blankets, sticks, hammers, bricks and other items,” Zwane said.
She noted that the circumstances indicated that property was allegedly being removed from several houses.
“Police ordered the crowd to stop and comply with the instructions; however, the suspects allegedly ignored the instructions and continued with the unlawful activities,” she said.
Sixteen suspects were arrested and detained at Springs Police Station. They are expected to appear before the Springs Magistrate’s Court soon.
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