As demonstrations highlighting concerns over illegal immigration continue across South Africa, police have arrested several suspects accused of looting, robbery and intimidation, warning that criminal behaviour will not be tolerated.
Large crowds have gathered in several parts of the country in recent days, with many demonstrators marching peacefully and handing over memorandums to police stations and municipalities, calling for stronger action against illegal immigration.
However, SAPS said some individuals have exploited the demonstrations to commit crimes.
In KwaZulu-Natal alone, five more suspects were arrested for allegedly breaking into tuck shops owned by foreign nationals and stealing goods. Three were caught in the act by private security officers before being handed over to police.
Two additional suspects were arrested in Mountain Rise, while another man was arrested in Melmoth after allegedly robbing foreign nationals at a home while threatening them with a stick.
Police also arrested a woman on charges of assaulting police officers and intimidation, while another man was arrested for intimidation after officers intervened during the alleged assault of a foreign national at an informal settlement in Sydenham.
Meanwhile, SAPS, together with other law enforcement agencies, maintained a heavy presence in Durban, where thousands of demonstrators marched from King DinuZulu Park to Point SAPS to hand over a memorandum.
Police said officers were deployed across the province, with eThekwini identified as the main hotspot, to protect both demonstrators and community property.
“SAPS remains committed to upholding the constitutional rights of all people, including the right to peaceful assembly, while ensuring that public order is maintained and the law is applied fairly and impartially,” the police said.
Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia warned that anyone using the protests as an opportunity to commit crimes would be dealt with decisively.
“We urge citizens to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly and to ensure that demonstrations remain peaceful and lawful,” Cachalia said.
“Those who choose to exploit the marches to commit criminal acts will face the full might of the law. Police will continue to identify, arrest and prosecute all those responsible for criminal conduct.”
Authorities have urged demonstrators to continue exercising their constitutional right to protest peacefully while allowing law enforcement to maintain public order and protect all communities.