According to the National Joint Operation and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints), the law enforcement is satisfied with the manner in which the deployments of law enforcement have excercised their authority in ensuring law and order in the country thus far.
550 arrest have been made, these crimes range from public violence to intimidation.
SAPS national Spokesperson, Colonel Athlenda Mathe, said the Natjoints, working closely with various stakeholders in the security cluster, “ensured maximum mobilisation of resources to heighten police visibility with a view of preventing acts of lawlessness and criminality”.
She also commended members of the Community Police Forums (CPF), neighborhood watches and other community structures are also commended for their supportive role, as well as the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) and National Taxi Alliance (NTI).
“The Natjoints has at 22:00 on 20 March 2023 arrested more than 550 protesters for amongst these crimes, public violence, intimidation, damage to critical infrastructure, theft and attempted looting were amongst the crimes committed”, she said.
As reported in the statement, Gauteng recorded the highest number of arrest with 149, the Northern Cape recorded the second highest number with 95 arrests, the Eastern Cape also saw 80 protesters arrested, followed by Free State with 64 arrests.
In conclusion the Natjoints wishes to thank various stakeholders, from members of the public and the business fraternity for working together with law enforcement to uphold and enforce the law.
