About 180 irate residents of Empolweni informal settlement in Makhaza, Khayelitsha, took to the streets on Wednesday night, as they shared their frustration for not having electricity.
The disgruntled community members allegedly set alight a
SAPS Nyala on Baden Powell Drive at about 20:40
‘’According to reports, members of Public Order Police Faure (POPS) were attending a protest action where approximately 180 disgruntled community members were protesting at the mentioned address. Allegedly the crowed was pushed back utilizing a police Nyala when the members was reversing back to Baden Powell they noticed smoke inside the vehicle and they jumped out of the vehicle and noticed that it was is on fire. Fire and rescue were arranged to extinguish the fire. The members did not sustain any injuries,’’ said Captain F.C Van Wyk, Western Cape police spokesperson.
Makhaza police registered a case of attempted murder,
public violence and malicious damage to property.
SUPPLIEDWestern Cape Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC,
Anroux Marais, expressed outrage about the incident and said she is disturbed
by the attack on officers and the destruction of an armoured vehicle.
‘’This brazen attack on police officers is unacceptable and
an affront to law enforcement. While I understand and acknowledge the
frustrations of residents who face socio-economic challenges faced, there is absolutely
no justification for attacking law enforcement officers or destroying the very
resources meant to protect our communities.’’
Marais highlighted that the province, like many parts of
the country, is already severely under-resourced when it comes to policing.
‘’We cannot afford to lose essential equipment that play a
vital role in ensuring public order and protecting both officers and residents
in high-risk areas. Destroying these tools of safety only further undermines
our collective fight against crime and lawlessness.’’
“I call on the SAPS to do everything within their power to
track down those responsible for this criminal act and ensure they are brought
to justice. We cannot, and must not, allow attacks on the state and its
resources to go unpunished. It sets a dangerous precedent and erodes the rule
of law," she added.
Done by: Mitchum George
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