By Obakeng Maje
Orkney-Twenty accused of the thirty five protestors arrested on Thursday for public violence, arson and malicious damage to property appeared in the Orkney Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

They are still in custody and will appear again on 4 April 2014 for bail application.

Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone said that on 26 and 27 March 2014 respectively, protestors partially burnt the local municipality offices and pelted windows with stones.

“The protestors allegedly barricaded roads with burning tyres and looted several shops belonging to foreign nationals. It is further alleged that one shop and a bottle store were also burnt down” he said.

According to the information, protestors damaged two police vehicles by breaking their windscreens.  

“The protestors allegedly went to schools in the township in the morning today, disrupted classes and forced learners to join the protests.  Police are currently monitoring the situation” Mokgwabone said.

The suspects, 13 females and 22 males, with ages ranging between 19 and 39 appeared in Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

Two of the suspects are allegedly minors with ages 15 each.   

“We would like to issue a stern warning to the protestors that criminal activities and gangsterism  will not be tolerated and the police will deal effectively with those who take advantage of community protest to commit crime”, said Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone.  

The community is advised to consult with relevant authorities in case of any dissatisfaction on any matter affecting them. It is advisable that the rule of law is respected at all times and that proper procedures are adhered to when raising complaints. Investigations continue.-TDN
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