Malvern hit by overnight violence and looting

Xenophobic attacks that took place last night and during the early hours of this morning resulted in damage to a number of shops in Jules Street, Malvern.

People have taken refuge at Primrose and Cleveland police stations. Photograph: Oliver Bate

Cleveland SAPS spokesperson, Constable Mpho Mashakane confirmed said the attacks took place at around 7pm. Cst Mashakane said 12 suspects were arrested following the attacks on foreigners and looting of shops.

Democratic Alliance constituency head for Johannesburg East, Mr Jack Bloom, visited the area this morning.

“Most people I spoke to thought that criminals were behind the violence as only one foreign-owned shop was targeted, and windows were smashed at some local shops,” he said.

He said damaged shops included an automotive supplies store and an electrical wholesaler.

Cst Mashakane said the situation was calm after the arrests.