‘We say to hell with people being placed on leave … we need them to be removed …’
Police spokesperson, Brigadier Mohale Ramatseba, said the reports that are being circulated on social media are false.
“There are false reports being communicated via social media, eg Facebook, that police are ready to shoot community members. These reports are false and untrue and must cease immediately,” said Ramatseba.
“The police have initially followed a soft approach to deal with the current situation. Police members have been attacked and pelted with stones. An urgent appeal is once again being made to residents of Kimberley to stop posting unfounded and unverified information on social media as it is causing panic and instilling unnecessary fear to the community.”
Ramatseba also urged residents to contact the police if they have any information on the looting that took place on the weekend.
“People who committed these criminal acts of looting and destroying public and private property will prompt the police to adopt the smart and tactical approach in order to address the current situation. The SAPS will not allow hooligans to destroy and damage property in Kimberley during this volatile situation.
“Community members who participated in the looting and destruction of businesses should hand themselves over to the police and failing to do so will result in them being dealt with according to the law.
“Residents are urged to inform the police if they have any information regarding any criminal activity relating to the current situation or of possible attacks on any premises within the greater Kimberley area. All information will be treated as confidential and Lieutenant-Colonel Johan Strydom can be contacted on 084 669 5171,” said Ramatseba.