![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/07/RS45NZaxeWEV-Amanwh_86931-e1627284511703.jpg)
Forty-four people accused of public violence, theft and contravening of the Disaster Management Act will return to the Randburg Magistrates’ Court for their bail hearing on July 22.
The suspects were arrested in Diepsloot on July 13 following the looting of goods and vandalism of shops at a local mall.
Regional spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority, Phindile Mjonondwane said the 44 suspects were remanded in custody, and another two were hospitalised and will appear in court as soon as they are discharged.
“Only 44 out of the 46 were remanded in custody for the South African Police Service to gather information in preparation for their applications to be released on bail,” she said
“They were charged with public violence, housebreaking with intent to commit an offence, theft, malicious injury to property, trespassing, convening a gathering in contravention of the Disaster Management Act and contravention of the regulations in respect of the restriction on the movement of persons.”
Police also welcomed the influx of calls and tip-offs from the communities in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng which allowed the integrated security forces to recover suspected stolen property.