No arrests in Ses’khona criminality and thuggery 

6 May 2015

The Minister of Police has revealed that no arrests were made during or following the protests in Cape Town on 26 March 2015.

This draws into question the impartiality of the police and the will to enforce the law without political considerations. 

The protests were marred by very clear violations of the law, including vandalism, looting and destruction of public property. 

Local businesses and informal traders were all severely affected by the thuggish conduct of Ses’khona protests. Prima facie evidence exists to arrest, charge and prosecute people involved.

It is a failure of justice that no arrests were made following this destructive gathering.

Furthermore, the Department of Transport has indicated that there were damages to Metrorail infrastructure to the cost of R3 680.00 but no damages will be recovered from Ses'khona or individual members.

It is clear that both the SAPS and the Department of Transport are not willing to hold Ses'khona responsible for criminality.

The failure of the SAPS to make any arrests sends the wrong message and it condones the looting of businesses and destruction of property. 

Ses’khona criminality and thuggery should not be tolerated.

The Minister of Police must explain why no arrests were made when there was a clear violation of the law by Ses’khona.

Statement issued by Marius Redelinghuys, DA National Spokesperson, May 6 2015