Land-grab report seems fake, says chairperson of the Johannesburg West Cluster, Adv Jean Berdou
FARMALL – The land grab report seems fake, police explain ...
With rumours of land grabs doing the rounds on various social media platforms, community members of Farmall are concerned that they might be a target.
The chairperson of the Johannesburg West Cluster, Adv Jean Berdou, said they were aware of the rumour that is doing the rounds on social media platforms, however, nothing has happened.
“When we find out something, we will make sure to alert community members.”
Touching on the issue of land grabs and land-grab rumours, the South African Police Service‘s Lieutenant Katlego Mogale stated that they have learnt about the concern of a fake news story based on a document purporting to emanate from the police.
“The document alleges inter alia that there will be land grabs, riots and plundering from 18 April, building up to a strike by all major unions on 25 April. The story, which has gone viral on WhatsApp and social media suggests that these acts of lawlessness will take place in major cities such as Johannesburg and Pretoria as well as other cities throughout the country.”
Mogale explained that the document alleged that roads and highways will be blocked and those who will not be participating in the strike will be threatened, intimidated, hurt or even be killed.
“The police can state categorically that this is not an authentic police document and the allegations made in the said letter are false and misleading. Such misinformation is reckless, irresponsible and unacceptable,” he said. “These utterances are clearly aimed at causing alarm and fear and should be condemned in the strongest possible way. It is utter disregard for the law.”
Mogale added that social media is a helpful platform for both community and the police, however, hoaxes, fake news and dissemination of false information not only sows panic amongst our communities but also wastes the police’s time and resources.
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Also read:
https://www.citizen.co.za/fourways-review/279669/desperation-violence-fear-understanding-human-story-behind-hermanus-land-grab/
