North West MEC for Human Settlements, Public Safety and Liaison Nono Maloyi has warned against malicious damage to public and private property during the service delivery protests saying the behaviour is unacceptable and those involved will be dealt with harshly.
MEC Maloyi’s warning follows recent protests where shops were looted, cars stoned and burned during the spade of protests across the province.
“Public safety is our responsibility as the department and we are not going to allow violent actions and damage to public and private property. Those involved in these criminal activities would be arrested and we are definitely going to oppose bail for those arrested.”
“We are going to work 24 hours in ensuring that our communities and properties are safe and further ensure that peace and stability is maintained in the province,” said Maloyi.
So far, about 73 people have been arrested in recent service delivery protests taking place in different areas across the province.
MEC Maloyi said the appointed protest task team is investigating allegations that the service delivery protests are politically sponsored and announcements will be made post investigations.
The MEC further appealed to the general public not to engage in unlawful act but rather assist police to deal with this increasing lawlessness and criminal activities.
MEC Maloyi said his department will on Saturday, 23 June 2012, engage with Provincial justice Crime Prevention and Security Cluster and Members of Mayoral Council (MMCs) for Public Safety from all municipalities across the province to deal with issues of crime and public violence in the province.
Enquiries:
Simon Lesolang Mmope
Tel: 018 391 0423
Cell: 082 574 7621
Fax: 018 391 0328
E-mail: smmope@nwpg.gov.za
MEC Maloyi condemns damage to public and private property during protests
Province
