City notes with regret the decision on the acquittal of ‘poo protesters'

Today, 16 July 2014, the seven ring leaders of the ‘poo protest' which occurred outside the Western Cape legislature last year were acquitted by the Magistrate Jasthree Steyn.

While we believe in the independence of the judiciary, the City of Cape Town finds it highly regrettable and surprising that the magistrate ruled in this fashion. We have a number of reservations about the way this case was handled, particularly since critical State evidence was not allowed to be submitted, including photographs and other evidence.

We expect that the State will appeal the ruling. There are a number of pending cases and Ses'Khona are facing very serious charges. Today's verdict has no bearing on these separate matters.

The City is pursuing civil action against the Informal Settlement Association which later become Ses'Khona. We are also investigating the role that the City can play in appealing the ruling.

We maintain that Mr Nkohla and Mr Lili owe Cape Town residents an apology for their violent behaviour.

Statement issued by JP Smith, Cape Town Mayoral Committee member for Safety and Security, July 16 2014

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