The Acting Cluster Commander of Uitenhage, Brigadier Ronald Koll issued a stern warning to violent protesters in Uitenhage today. This comes after a group of protesters set alight the office of Ward 45 councillor Simphiwe Plaatjies and also torched a truck with a tanker trailer in Uitenhage in less than 24 hours.
On Friday, 24 August 2018 at around 8pm, it is alleged that a group of protesters threw petrol bombs into the office of Ward 45 councillor, Simphiwe Plaatjies in Bantom Road, KwaNobuhle. This incident follows sporadic and irregular incidents of burning of tyres in Ward 45 and the temporary closure of Rocklands Road leading to Uitenhage.
During this protest, it is also alleged that a group of protesters forced a truck driver to stop on the Rocklands Road outside Uitenhage. It is believed that a group searched the driver and stole his two cell phones. The estimated damage is believed to be over R4 Million.
The driver was not injured during the incident. Police are probing cases of arson, malicious damage to property and robbery. Currently, the situation is under control and being monitored by various policing units. Motorists are advised to avoid driving on Rocklands Road leading to Uitenhage.
Acting Cluster Commander of Uitenhage, Brigadier Ronald Koll said: “These are just criminal elements, which are going to be dealt with harshly”. Violent protest actions are not going to be tolerated, added Brigadier Koll.
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