Pretoria – Government has strongly condemned the recent incidents of looting and destruction of property that have been reported over the past weeks in areas that have been affected by protests across the country.
This follows the latest riots and looting that took place in Diepsloot on Tuesday night, where a police officer was killed, two others disarmed, an ambulance damaged and a fire department vehicle stoned.
The protests were reportedly as a result of the community not having power and water for the past three days.
Acting Director-General of Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), Donald Liphoko, said: “Government wishes to reiterate that although people have the right to protest, they should do so within the confines of the law and without infringing on the rights of others.
“Those found to be committing acts of criminality will be dealt with decisively by law enforcement agencies.
“As we approach the local government elections we also call upon the public to support government and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in ensuring the safety of citizens as well as free and fair elections.
“We cannot accept wrongdoing in communities in the guise of service delivery protest and will do all in our power to ensure the stability and security of citizens”.
Members of communities are urged to report acts of criminality to the Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
Facebook Comments