Photo by [Polity]
Law enforcement will take action against criminal activity, said the spokesperson for the National Police Commissioner, Athlenda Mathe. In an interview with Salaamedia she assured citizens there are operations and procedures to ensure their safety and security.
Though they are currently preparing with various law enforcement agencies ahead of the planned “National Shutdown” on March 20, she urged citizens to actively coordinate with law enforcement and report any lawlessness that might occur.
“There is no such thing called ‘the shutdown’. There is a planned protest, and that is what we are planning for as members of SAPS and all other law enforcement agencies.”
Memories of the July Riots
Nationwide, citizens are wary of the potential scale of the demonstrations, with the July riots forever entrenched in their memories. During the riots, businesses were looted and burned. Violent outbreaks as communities were at odds with rioters and the destruction of public and private property.
On Wednesday, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema stated they would not be held responsible if similar events occurred.
“We said we are not going to damage any property. Therefore, we will not take responsibility for any damaged property. Police have the responsibility to arrest criminals. Anyone who damages anyone’s property will face law enforcement.”
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Law Enforcement Are Better Prepared
The 2021 July riots took everyone by surprise, including law enforcement. However, this time around, they are not taking any chances.
Mathe said they are implementing the July riots recommendations, stating law enforcement agencies, SAPS and community police forums are better coordinated and prepared.
“This time around, we [are] better coordinated. We are working closely with the intelligence community, which is on the ground monitoring the situation. We are better coordinated with private security that is acting as our force multiplier … Most importantly, we are urging communities to work together with SAPS and all those law enforcement agencies to ensure that we jointly uphold and enforce the law.”
She added law enforcement does not have a problem with protesting as it is their constitutional right. However, she stressed the responsibility and accountability associated with those rights – protesters are responsible for ensuring the protest is orderly. Law enforcement will not allow people to break the law.
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Crime and Punishment
It is important to note law enforcement have the obligation and responsibility to protect people and ensure the safety of non-protest and protesters alike.
However, Mathe said they will not condone any lawlessness, which includes the burning of tyres, the looting of businesses and any destruction of private and public property.
“[Anyone] who is found [breaching] the law will be arrested. We are not mincing our words. We will take class action because prohibiting people’s freedom of movement is a criminal offence. Intimidating people, threatening people, or public violence is a criminal offence. “
Anyone who breaks the law will be charged and arrested. Citizens are encouraged to report any criminal activity to SAPS.
