The second person arrested on the West Rand on suspicion of creating and circulating inflammatory messages with the potential of inciting violence is set to appear in court later this week.
Phindi Mjonondwane, the regional spokesperson for the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) confirmed to the Herald on Tuesday that the person will appear the Westonaria Magistrates’ Court on Friday, July 23 in connection with instigating public violence.
Also read: LISTEN: Person arrested whose malicious voice note causes panic
Two people from the West Rand have so far been arrested after allegedly circulating voice notes inciting violence, amid the violent riots and looting of the past week. One suspect was arrested in Roodepoort and another in Westonaria.
Also read: UPDATE: ANC condemns malicious voice note, thanks law enforcement
On July 19, acting minister in the presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said six key arrests had been made to date.
Of these arrests three suspects are remanded in police custody for bail hearings later in the week, and other court appearances are expected soon. One in Gauteng has been given bail.
“The details on these cases will be provided later but charges against them include incitement to commit public violence. Further arrests are expected soon.”
Also read: Bail application for fake voice note set for July 26
#sapsHQ (Warning) Messages on social media that incide violence or call for certain areas to be shutdown is a crime. Anyone found to be sharing such content will face criminal charges of inciting violence. #StopIncitingViolence #StopSpreadingFakeNews #DeleteDontShare TM pic.twitter.com/au5iETMGw6
— SA Police Service ???????? (@SAPoliceService) July 18, 2021
#StopSpreadingFakeNews | We call on everyone to think twice before they forward stories circulating on social media and other sharing platforms. #DeleteDontShare pic.twitter.com/ErmHbTqxZH
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) July 18, 2021