File
Three people have been arrested on allegations of creating and circulating inflammatory messages with the potential to incite violence.
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure, NatJoints), said in a statement on Sunday that West Rand Police arrested two people, one on Thursday night in Roodepoort and the other on Friday in Westonaria.
They are due to appear in court on Monday.
Police spokesperson, Colonel Brenda Muridili, said a 21-year old woman was arrested in Duduza in the Ekurhuleni District on Saturday 17 July 2021 on similar allegations.
“She is expected to appear before the Nigel Magistrate Court on Tuesday,” she said.
The arrests followed statements by the police that 12 instigators of the violence which led to the looting and destruction in Kwazulu Natal and Gauteng had been identified.
Muridili said NatJOINTS, was also aware of more messages “cropping up and circulating on various social media platforms” threatening attacks on police stations, law courts, and key infrastructure as well as more looting.
“The NatJOINTS has subsequently mobilised maximum resources to address these threats and heighten visibility. Measures have also been put in place to ensure stability, and the protection and safety of those who are not involved in the unrest and wish to go on with their daily routine,” she said.
Meanwhile, Muridili said by Sunday morning a total of 3 407 suspects had been arrested on various charges since the violence erupted over a week ago, with only one suspect granted bail.
She said 1 122 people were expected to appear in different courts in the two most affected provinces, while the remaining
dockets were still under investigation.
