Alex Mall looting attempt nipped in bud, shops remain closed
ALEX – The mall will remain closed until further notice.
Communications and marketing manager of Alex Mall Ntokozo Bophela said there was an attempted attack at the mall last night, July 12, but it was quickly nipped in the bud by the army on the scene.
This comes after various looting incidents, road barricades and opportunistic cimes by residents across parts of Johannesburg over the weekend and on July 12. It is believed that many of these incidents were sparked by protests against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma.
“Following this [attempted] attack by looters overnight, it’s in the best interest and safety of our tenants, shoppers and the community at large to remain closed until further notice,” Bophela said.
“We are calling for calm and peace within our community. While we empathise with the frustrations of the impoverished and unemployed, there is no excuse for the blatant vandalism taking place. It is important to note that the impact of the destruction of property will further economic hardship and job losses in our communities.”
She addressed community members, “Alex Mall is and always will be your mall as we’ve always been committed to the development and upliftment of our community through creating employment, some cool giveaways, sponsorships and donations. We do our part, and so please, do yours, bopha [a Zulu plea to stop].”
ALSO READ ALL THE UNREST ACTION AS IT UNFOLDED YESTERDAY, JULY 12
