Election poster theft in KZN plagues DA

Durban North councillor Shaun Ryley and uMhlanga ward councillor Heinz de Boer have condemned the theft of more than 70 DA posters in their wards in the last two weeks, reports Northglen News.

De Boer has opened a case of theft at the Durban North police station, the second such case in recent weeks. Following the thefts, the party has offered a cash reward of R50,000 for information on DA poster defacement, removal, or interference that leads to a successful prosecution.

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Speaking to Northglen News, De Boer said one man was caught on camera removing posters in the Umhlanga CBD.

“Unfortunately, the vehicle was fitted with false number plates, however, the police are investigating the matter. The culprit was confronted by a resident and a verbal altercation ensued. The culprit, undeterred, kept pulling posters down. There were also around 50 posters taken down on the M4 Ruth First Highway,” he said.

His comments were echoed by Ryley, who said a number of posters had been pulled down or ripped apart in the Swapo Road (Broadway) precinct.

“It’s a criminal offence to deface or damage election posters according to the Electoral Act. I have collected a number of posters, torn apart and vandalised.”

In a statement released on Sunday, the party urged residents who witnessed people removing DA posters from poles around eThekwini to report it to report@da.org.za, or to call 031 263 0351.

The Durban North SAPS confirmed a case has been opened.

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