Seshego municipal offices closed after vandalism, 21 arrested

Twenty-one suspects are expected to appear in the the Seshego Magistrate’s Court on Monday after an incident during which the Polokwane Municipal offices in Seshego Zone 8 were vandalised on Friday. Residents were advised to make use of the municipal offices in Zones 1 and 3 until the damaged offices are restored.
Provincial Police Spokesperson Moatshe Ngoepe confirmed on Tuesday that the Police is investigating cases of malicious damage to property and public violence after residents attempted to torch the offices.
“The damaged items include windows and computers in the front offices and the Police managed to arrest about 21 people who will appear in the Seshego Magistrate’s Court on Monday,” Ngoepe confirmed and added that no casualties were reported although rubber bullets were discharged to disperse people.
According to Ngoepe, the incident took place after the community attempted to invade land near the Zone 8 graveyard.
“The Police then reacted to it and warned the community that the land belongs to the municipality and the right procedures must be followed to ensure that the people occupy the land lawfully. People refused to oblige and the Red Ants and municipal officials were activated and the shacks were removed overnight. They then decided to march and started destroying the municipal offices,” Ngoepe said.

Story: BARRY VILJOEN
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