Over R3 mil in damages after public violence

Twelve suspects arrested during an incident of public violence at Tshitale outside Makhado on Saturday were expected to appear in the local magistrate’s court earlier this week.
The suspects are facing charges of public violence, arson and malicious damage to property after damages estimated at more than R3 million were reported.
According to Provincial Police Spokesperson Moatshe Ngoepe the arrests follows violent protest action which erupted at Ga-Muila Village in the early hours of Saturday.
It is alleged that a group of community members went on the rampage and burned down the house of the local Chief at Kwaaidraai including the houses of two headmen.
Protesters allegedly proceeded to torch six vehicles and further caused damage estimated at more than R3 million to property at a local mine, Ngoepe indicated
The motive behind this incident is not clear yet and Police investigations continue. More arrests are expected to be made.
Provincial Police Commissioner Nneke Ledwaba has strongly condemned the incident.

Story: RC Myburgh
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