More than 550 arrested during EFF national shutdown

More than 550 protestors were arrested for amongst others public violence, intimidation, damage to critical infrastructure, theft and attempted looting.

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) gave an update regarding Monday’s National shutdown.

According to NATJOINTS, Gauteng recorded the highest number of arrests with 149, followed by the Northern Cape with 95 arrests, the Eastern Cape also saw 80 protestors arrested, and the Free State saw 64 people in handcuffs.

Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the number of tyres that were confiscated throughout the country remains at 24 300.

‘’These were tyres that were strategically placed for acts of criminality. In conclusion, the Natjoints wishes to thank various stakeholders from members of the public and the business fraternity for working together with law enforcement to uphold and enforce the law,’’ she said.

PICTURE - Esona Mfazwe: EFF protesting in Cape Town


Meanwhile, EFF leader Julius Malema has hailed Monday's nationwide protests as a great success.

Malema joined hundreds of EFF members, supported by several other organisations, in a march to the Mahlamba Ndlopfu presidential residence in Tshwane on Monday.

"This is the most successful shutdown ever in the history of struggle in South Africa," Malema told supporters at Church Square in Pretoria.

"On my way here they said they are cancelling load shedding for today because there is no demand for electricity today.

Malema said some will say the shutdown was unsuccessful as there was no looting or burning of property.

"Buses and taxis are driving around the townships and cities empty, because our people have heeded the call of the EFF to not allow the country to be business as usual, and call for the resignation of Cyril Ramaphosa. The success of the national shutdown so far proves that our people are sick and tired of load shedding, corruption, unemployment, crime, gender-based violence and a lack of service delivery," added Malema.

 

Done By: Mitchum George

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