POTCHEFSTROOM – The North West Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Dintletse Molefe strongly condemns violent protests that have since erupted in the early hours of the morning today in and around Mahikeng.

According to information received, the protesters initially barricaded two main roads; R503 (Mahikeng / Lichtenburg) near Dihatshwane village and the N18 (Mahikeng / Vryburg) near Kedirile Inn and Makhubung village. In a bid to maintain public order, the police dispersed the crowd and opened the road. While, the N18 (Mahikeng / Vryburg) is opened, the yet to be identified groups constantly closed the road which stretches from Montshiwastad to Makhubung village, thus, affecting the free flow of traffic. As a result, motorists are once more requested to exercise caution and cooperate with the law enforcement officials.

In addition, reports of barricading of the R49 road in Signal Hill village with burning tyres and various other objects were received, but the police managed to swiftly disperse the crowd and clear the road.

At this stage, one male suspect (30) has been arrested for contravention of the Criminal Matters Amendment Act, 2015, contravention of the National Road Traffic Act, 1996 and public violence. The suspect is expected to appear soon in the Molopo Magistrates’ Court in Mmabatho.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner expressed her disapproval of the violent protests. She also assured the public that the police are dealing with the situation and would not hesitate to arrest anyone who incites violence or mobilises others to break the law. In conclusion, the Acting Provincial Commissioner urged members of the community to disregard messages doing the rounds on social media platforms encouraging or inciting others to embark on what is termed “Total Shutdown of Mahikeng” as that is meant create anarchy and lawlessness.

Source: South African Police Service