Media Statement from Limpopo Media Centre

Corporate Communication

South African Police Service

17 October 2013

POLOKWANE - The Limpopo SAPS is aware of the intended illegal gathering on Friday (tomorrow) and days to follow amidst the violence and destructing of property in Malamulele.

The Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Fannie Masemola has warned that the police will act against any illegal gatherings without following due processes as provided for by the Gatherings Act.

"We have been monitoring the situation and what we have been observing is pure criminality. Acts of violent destruction and intimidation of innocent people cannot be justified as public protests and that is why we shall act harshly against lawlessness.   The police recognise the democratic rights of any person to express their grievances, however such rights do not imply that those who do not wish to participate in a strike must be intimidated, beaten and properties destroyed," added Masemola.

Masemola said the police have the capacity to squash any attempts by the Malamulele residents to gather and thus has called on them to play a crucial role in this regard to avert any potential tensions and clashes. The violence has been accompanied by serious provocations, intimidations, public violence and even elements of criminality.

"The police have a responsibility to police public protests, gatherings and events within the framework of the law.  The Gatherings Act confers considerable responsibilities on organisers to ensure that such events are carried out in an orderly and peaceful manner. Any contravention of this will result in police taking drastic steps," said Masemola.

The procedure entails, a process where the applicant will give notice for a gathering to local authorities and subsequent section 4 (meeting) in terms of the Gatherings Act to be held between, police organisers and local authority.

Masemola has called upon the communities as well as law abiding citizens of Malamulele and surroundings areas to behave in a responsible and accountable manner. They should stay away from illegal and unlawful activities and gatherings that provokes violence and destruction of their property or neighbours property.

Meanwhile sixty five (65) suspects who were arrested on Tuesday for public violence and possession of stolen items in Malamulele were remanded in custody when they appeared before the Malamulele Magistrate's Court today. Further police investigations continue.

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