ACTING NATIONAL COMMISSIONER LT GEN DIMPANE ISSUES STATEMENT FOLLOWING ACTS OF VIOLENCE IN SOWETO AND DURBAN
Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has issued a stern warning to those involved in violent protests in Soweto and Durban.
This follows the torching of ten cars in Soweto and 14 in Durban during protests outside Home Affairs offices assisting asylum seekers.
Three foreign nationals have been arrested, while shops belonging to foreign nationals have also been looted amid the unrest.
The protests are linked to claims that a recent Constitutional Court ruling on asylum applications gives undocumented foreign nationals a blanket amnesty.
“The South African Police Service will not tolerate lawlessness. We will not allow violence, the torching of vehicles, destruction of property or attacks on people to continue.”
She said anyone who chooses to break the law will be dealt with decisively, without fear or favour.
“Those behind the torching of vehicles will be pursued. Those responsible for acts of violence and destruction will be identified, investigated and, where sufficient evidence exists, arrested and brought to book.
“There will be consequences for criminality. The right to raise concerns and to protest does not give anyone the right to commit crime. Legitimate grievances must be pursued through lawful and constitutional processes,” said Dimpane.