The arrest of five white youth in Zeerust on Friday night for a spate of violent attacks and robberies signals an end to hooliganism that had the potential to heighten racial tension within the otherwise peaceful community says North West MEC for Public Safety, Howard Yawa.
"We condemn the sadistic attacks on innocent people and commend the police for the breakthrough in their investigations. We appeal for the community not to be provoked but to exercise restraint and allow for the law to take its course because there is no place except jail for those who still harbour racial prejudices," added MEC Yawa.
The five are alleged to have gone on a rampage last Friday around midnight. They reportedly unleashed a reign of terror in the quiet rural town as they attacked, brutally assaulted and robbed five Africans in three separate incidents .Their fourth victim was an Indian man whom they shot with a pellet gun.
All victims were allegedly on their way home. Three off-duty soldiers were robbed of their cellphones and wristwatches, the female victim was robbed of her belongings, while an off duty policeman stationed at the local police station was robbed of his two cellphones and a wallet that contained R300. The suspects are held in police custody after being charged with attempted murder, assault grievous bodily harm and robbery. They are expected in the Zeerust Magistrate Court on Monday. Further investigations in all cases are continuing.
Enquiries:
Lesiba Moses Kgwele
Tel: 018 381 9171
Cell: 083 629 1987
Fax: 018 381 9164
E-mail: LKgwele@nwpg.gov.za
