DA condemns killing of protestors

The Democratic Alliance condemns the killing of at least two protestors in Damonsville, outside of Brits, North West today (see eNCA report). Media reports suggest that several other protestors have also been seriously injured. The DA will request that the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) launches an urgent investigation into what happened in Damonsville, and that those responsible be brought to justice speedily.  

The service delivery protests were about the lack of water in Damonsville, which has reportedly been without access to clean water for a week. The DA will also request that the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) investigate the failure to ensure water supply to the area.

The shooting and killing of protestors is completely unacceptable. Police are not allowed to kill and wound at random, and those guilty of today's killings must be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The SAPS should always use the minimum force possible, and when increased force is deemed necessary, the SAPS must seek to preserve human life as a priority. 

South Africans are increasingly fearing both criminals and the police. Incidents of police brutality, abuse of power and excessive force are now commonplace. This cannot continue. 

Statement issued by DA leader, Helen Zille, January 13 2014

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter