SASOLBURG – The community of Rosemary in Sasolburg expressed their anger during a protest march on Wednesday, November 29, demanding the removal of their station commander.

The call for removal follows allegations of assault against Colonel Marike Galant. Mamokete Motloung (50) and Nontobeko Tyathuza (42), part of the gathered crowd during the protest, claimed that Galant assaulted them on November 15. A video circulated on social media captured the incident, showing Colonel Galant allegedly slapping Motloung and forcefully handcuffing her while instructing someone named Fredick for assistance.

Various organisations, including members from the African National Congress, Economic Freedom Fighters, Democratic Alliance, and Crime Busters, joined the march. Protesters carrying placards and chanting “Galant must go!” voiced their discontent.

Speaking to Ster South at the march, Mita Mosia, a resident and member of Crime Busters, expressed the reason behind their protest. “We marched and delivered a memorandum due to the assault charges against Colonel Galant and two CPF members. We demand her removal because she fails to serve us as residents,” she stated.

Former Metsimaholo Local Municipality mayor, Lindiwe Shongwe, also participated in the march. Addressing the gathering, Shongwe urged the police to collaborate with the community to combat crime.

“Women are being abused, and they have lost faith in approaching the authorities.

We’re here not to fight you but to implore you to work with us,” she emphasised.

After the memorandum was handed over, Fezile Dabi District Commissioner Major General Moses Makubo assured the crowd of a response within seven days. He acknowledged their grievances and pledged to work together to combat crime in the area.

Reacting to the march, Motloung expressed her satisfaction with the turnout. “The large turnout proves there’s an issue with our station. I’m thrilled to see so many people come out in support,” she remarked.