Tebogo Msimanga |
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS) and security forces have embarked on recovery operations with the collaboration of citizens who have gone out of their way giving tip-offs to the police, and some cleaning up their streets and business premises that were affected by the looting in the past week.
A total of 3 407 suspects had been arrested on various charges since the violence erupted over a week ago, with only one suspect granted bail, 1 122 expected to appear in different courts in the two most affected provinces, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
Major General Mathapelo Peters said a warning has also been issued to those who were not part of the looting spree but are buying stolen property from the looters that they too, will be arrested for being in possession of stolen property.
“In Gauteng 14 suspects were arrested. Amongst the goods recovered were bed mattresses; television sets; couches; fridges, sound systems; computer screens and laptops; steel frames; grocery, and clothing items.”
Meanwhile in KwaZulu-Natal 92 suspects have been arrested over the weekend for stolen property.
Members of the public should continue to report criminality to the police, which may be done anonymously by calling the crime stop number 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS app that can be downloaded onto any smartphone.
