We do not have the problem of xenophobia in Bokone Bophirima; what we have is the problem of people who engage in criminal activities, Bokone Bophirima Premier Supra Obakeng Ramoeletsi Mahumapelo told thousands of people gathered at the Bradford Taxi Rank in Mahikeng during the anti-xenophobia march earlier today.
Mahumapelo who led the march that was intended to stop the recent attacks against foreign nationals in the country, said the provincial government was determined to deal with criminal elements who are trying to make the country a nest for criminality and plug it into unnecessary crisis.
“We do not have the problem of xenophobia in Bokone Bophirima; what we have is the problem of people who engage in criminal activities and those people are foreign nationals and some of them are South Africans. Therefore it does not matter whether they are from Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Africa, Zimbabwe or Nigeria, we are going to deal with them.
“So when you come from outside please work with us to make sure that we all rise and unite against your fellow brothers and sisters who may be selling drugs and engaging in other criminal activities. It should not matter where those people are from or who they are,” said Mahumapelo.
He said the government was aware that there was circulation of drugs in certain tuck-shops, salons and other businesses in the province.
Mahumapelo appealed to all members of the public who may have information regarding crimes to approach the police or any other relevant authorities, adding that the provincial government has established an inter-departmental committee under the leadership of Community Safety MEC Gaoage Molapisi, Social Development MEC Fenny Gaolaolwe and Local Government and Human Settlement Collen Maine to deal with the problem.
Enquiries:
Mr Sam Mokaila
Cell: 0728361854
E-mail: mokailaoop@nwpg.gov.za
