Looting rumours are fake
Some shops in Tzaneen closed their doors on Thursday amid looting rumours at Tzaneen Lifestyle Centre.
The general manager of Tzaneen Lifestyle Centre, Alida Smit assured residents that there was no immediate threat or looting in Tzaneen.
She thanked local taxi associations who reacted to the situation and deployed some of their members.
Tzaneen police spokesperson Sgt Maurice Nkhwashu said their members were at the scene after receiving a tip-off about a suspicious vehicle alleged to be transporting looters.
“Although this was just a rumour, we will remain vigilant and we will respond to any call. We are warning those who are spreading fake news that they will suffer the consequences because it’s against the law to spread fake news,” he said.
A reliable source who was at the Lifestyle Centre told Herald that they saw a group of young men who were suspected to be looters.
He said they were stopped by the security guards before they could do anything.
Some parts of the country, mostly KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng have been partaking in a looting spree calling for the release of the former president, Jacob Zuma who was arrested for contempt of court last week.
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The looters caused havoc by destroying malls, shopping centres, warehouses and other infrastructures.
Essential goods such as fuel, food and medication have become scarce in the affected areas. Letaba Fire Protection Association (LFPA) has since released one of its helicopters to assist with transporting goods to KZN.
“Everyone is aware of the trouble in KZN and it seems to get worse. The LPFA was asked if we would release a helicopter for a few days to assist with transporting supplies/food/water etc to KZN. We appeal to the community of Tzaneen to help with sponsorships in the form of food, water, medical supplies etc to be taken there,” they said on a Facebook post.
The fire association has partnered with Agri Letaba.
They say supplies can be dropped off at Agri Letaba at the show grounds between 08:00 and 14:00 on Friday, July 16.
“We will keep you posted when the helicopter is leaving,” they said.
