SAPS ready to curb any potential threats of Xenophobic violence in Lim – Col. Otto

LIMPOPO – The SAPS NATJOINTS has activated a National Joint Operational Centre as a proactive measure to have a birds-eye view of the situation around the country and to curb any potential Xenophobic threats of violence that may flare up in any of the provinces.

This is according to Limpopo Provincial Spokesperson, Col. Ronel Otto when asked about the readiness of the SAPS if Xenophobic violence escalates in Limpopo.

She said these operational centres will also ensure the strategic deployment of our security forces for the purpose of counteracting and mitigating such violence.

“The security forces will be closely monitoring the situation on the ground and people are warned that any person committing any acts of crime will be met with the full might of the law.

“Xenophobic Violence initially erupted in KwaZulu-Natal a week ago. Since then the situation has been brought under control in this province after the National Commissioner ordered deployment of additional police personnel including members from the National Intervention Unit and various disciplines of the SAPS. This deployment led to the arrest of 74 people for offenses including murder, public violence, business robbery, theft and possession of firearms and ammunition,” said Phiyega.

Overnight, there was a flare-up of violent attacks and looting in Jeppestown, Johannesburg. Six suspects have been arrested for public violence and housebreaking. The suspects allegedly broke into foreigners’ shops and two people were injured in the process. The situation remains tense near Jeppe Hostel where the suspects were arrested. There have also been reports of looting in Mountain Rise and Alexander Road in Pietermaritzburg. Police deployments are in place and the situation is being monitored.