The SAPS arrested a female (48) after alleged service delivery protest action this morning, July 15, in Wells Estate in Gqeberha that resulted in the torching of a bus and an attempt to burn the councillor’s office.
According to the SAPS spokesperson, Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg, the protests started yesterday, July 14, within the Wells Estate community at Rabie Village, and this morning, July 15, at about 05:15 they started again when members of the community allegedly threw a petrol bomb towards the councillor’s office.
“The fire was quickly extinguished and there was no damage to the office. At approximately 06:00, the community members started burning tyres and rubbish in front of the multipurpose hall and a female suspect was arrested by the Metro Police,” Janse Van Rensburg said.
She added, “At approximately 06:40, in Anvuyo Street, Wells Estate, the community of Rabie Village torched a bus and a panel van. No one was injured and the SAPS is currently monitoring the situation in Wells Estate.”
The Public Order Police (POPS) stabilised the situation using rubber bullets and stun grenades. “The situation is calm, and Public Order Police members will remain in the area. Motorists are urged to be cautious when travelling in Wells Estate, or to make use of alternative routes.”
Janse Van Rensburg added, “The female suspect (48) was detained on charges in terms of Criminal Matters Amendment Act 18/2015 Section 3 (a)(b) Damage to Infrastructure, Public Violence, National Road Traffic Act 93/1996 Regulation 319(1) Hindering or obstructing traffic on public road, National Road Traffic Act 93/1996 reg 319(2) placing object on road to endanger traffic, Arson, Explosive Act 26/1956(petrol bombs sec 28) and Malicious damage to property. She will appear in the Motherwell magistrates’ court soon.”
