DURBAN Police officers from the SAPS Provincial Taxi Task Team, Public Order Policing Units as well as other Units were out in full force in Ladysmith since the protest erupted on 26 February 2020.

The protesters blockaded all entrances and exits to the Ladysmith CBD. The teams worked tirelessly to contain the situation, open blocked roads and address crime related issues in the area. The N11 which had been blocked has been opened as well as other routes. 19 people that were arrested by police yesterday. A 48yearold man will be facing charges of incitement to commit a crime and obstructing officers from performing their duties.

Three suspects aged between 33 and 35 were arrested for being in possession of firearms and ammunition. They will face charges of failing to comply with the Firearms Control Act as well as for being in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Five suspects aged between 23 and 34 were arrested for public violence.

Eleven suspects were arrested for interfering and obstructing police officers during the course of their duties. The suspects presented themselves at the Ladysmith Police Station demanding that certain arrested individuals be released into their custody. The team reacted swiftly and arrested them at the police station. Two suspects were arrested for common robbery after they robbed a truck driver of his vehicles keys. A total of six taxis were impounded. All the arrested suspects will make an appearance in the Ladysmith Magistrates Court on Monday 2 March 2020. A strong police presence is on the ground to monitor.

The KwaZuluNatal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula praised the police officers deployed in Ladysmith for containing the situation and the arrest of the suspects.

Source: South African Police Service