Police use water cannon as SASSA recipients que at Belville office

Video footage of police using water cannons outside the Social Security Agency of South Africa (SASSA)office in Bellville on Friday, is being shared on social media.

SASSA grant recipients were queueing to have their temporary disability SASSA grants reinstated.

It's understood that police gave them one minute to social distance themselves.

police had told the growing group that only 110 people could be served, with wheelchaired-bound people served first.

Social Development Minister, Lindiwe Zulu also climbed into the armoured vehicle and pleaded with them to socially distance.

The DA’s Western Cape Community Safety Spokesperson, Reagan Allen, called the incident as ‘deplorable’.

“The situation involving excessive use of police force at SASSA venues is deplorable – that the police have been instructed to use water cannons against vulnerable residents, many of whom are disabled persons, is an abuse of power. This once again shows the inefficacy in the use of policing resources. ‘’

 ‘’The reckless behaviour today is even more concerning when considering the high levels of crime in nearby communities.  Communities and individuals would feel safer if they are able to trust the South African Police Service and if resources are used in efficient and effective ways.” Allen added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George