LIMPOPO – The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola condemned any act of student violence, saying law enforcement will not leave any stone unturned to find the Univen students who set government property alight during a recent strike.
Lamola spoke during a visit to Thohoyandou on September 15, saying students who disrupted lectures some days earlier damaged property in their protest which related to among others, NSFAS issues.
At the time, students barricaded the university entrance and roads around campus. Motorists were pelted with stones and two police vehicles were set alight. Students have been protesting over unpaid allowances and the library operation schedule.
Lamola appealed to students to exercise their right to protest within the confines of the law.
“None of these acts of violence can be justified. We call on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly to apprehend the perpetrators. Although we respect the right of students to protest, we will not tolerate criminal elements and people violating the law that is in place to protect other people and their property.”
Univen spokesperson Dr Takalani Dzaga said students embarked on an illegal protest, leading to acts of vandalism.
“The university management condemns the illegal and violent strike in the strongest possible terms and is working with law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators and instigators of this illegal and violent protest to book.”
He said the strike disrupted the day-to-day business of the university, which is teaching, learning and research.
“Any illegal protest, vandalism and disturbing of other individuals’ peace can lead to a criminal offence. We urge students to desist from this act of criminality as it may impact their future endeavours,” he said.
