JA Floral Facebook page
Four women who claim that they were forced to drop their underwear to confirm their menstrual status have each laid a charge of crimen injuria against their employers.
The women who work for the family-owned business JA Floral distributors in Port Elizabeth laid the charges on Monday.
The alleged incident happened last week when menstrual blood was found in the staff toilets, without being cleaned.
The women alleged that they were forced to go to the bathroom to drop their underwear.
The incident went viral on social media resulting in a protest on Friday outside JA Floral's premises in Fairview.
Police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge says EFF members were back on Monday where four people were arrested.
He says the three women and one man between the ages of 35 and 53 were arrested for not adhering to the agreed-upon areas for picketing.
Captain Beetge says the four proceeded to the entrance of the business where they prevented customers from entering.
JA Florals issued a brief statement on their Facebook page on Saturday where they referred to the incident as "unfortunate."
The General Manager for JA Florals Dominique De Freitas said as a family business they have always prided themselves on how the staff is treated.
“We wish to assure everyone, our staff, our valued customers and the general public that we take this matter extremely seriously and consequently, have terminated the services of the person" he added.
Most of the people who commented on the post called the apology insincere, especially since the person involved is alleged to be a family member.
EFF members protesting outside JA Floral Distributors on Monday. (picture: EFF)
