Police warn against public violence

GA-MANYAKA – Following four separate acts of public violence in Mecklenburg, Segosese, Hlanganani and Modjadjieskloof on Wednesday, 10 April 2018, police have send out a stern warning against perpetrators.

Lt General Nneke Ledwaba, Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner, has called on members of the community in the province to remain calm and raise their concerns peacefully without disruptions and violence.

Ledwaba’s called comes after four separate violent situations that occurred in Mecklenburg, Segosese, Hlanganani and Modjadjieskloof policing areas on Wednesday.

Police said in the Mecklenburg policing area outside Burgersfort, they arrested nine suspects aged between 28 and 36 years-old for public violence.

Lt Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe, Limpopo Provincial Police Spokesperson, said the arrests followed the situation where members of the community in Ga-Manyaka village went on a rampage and barricaded the main road to Marula Mine until police were informed.

“Police responded immediately and apprehended the suspects. The road was subsequently cleared and opened,” explained Ngoepe.

He said more arrests were expected and the suspects would appear before the Mecklenburg Magistrates Court soon.

Meanwhile, in Segosese, Hlanganani and Modjadjieskloof policing areas, a group of community members also embarked on a protest action where they barricaded the inner roads and later went to barricade the R81 road along Polokwane and Giyani near Moeketsi.

“During the protest actions, tyres were burnt on the road and there was serious public disturbances including schools and traffic flow,” explained Ngoepe.

He warned that barricading roads during protest actions was a serious offence because it was tantamount to public violence.

“Those who continue to engage themselves in this type of actions are going to be dealt with harshly and without compromise,” concluded Ngoepe.