As part of maintaining public order, police in Potchefstroom apprehended seven suspects and impounded a taxi following violent protests that took place between Wednesday, 22 and Thursday, 23 February 2023 in Ikageng Location.
The suspects were nabbed after a group of community members allegedly barricaded the N12 road in Ikageng and Potchefstroom with stones, burning tyres and other objects, then later marched to the Central Business District (CBD) in a bid to voice their service delivery related dissatisfaction.
The protesters’ action led to the temporary closure of the road for traffic.
Subsequent to the arrest, all accused persons, aged between 35 and 40, appeared before the Potchefstroom Magistrates’ Court for public violence.
They were released on warning and are expected to reappear before the court on Thursday, 9 March 2023.
The situation is currently calm and the road is opened for traffic. While the police and traffic officers are maintaining their presence in the area, motorists and other road users are urged to exercise caution.
The North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, condemned the violent protests and implored on members of the community to raise their dissatisfaction in a peaceful and lawful manner as stipulated in the Constitution.
Moreover, he warned that those who disrespect the rule of law, will be dealt with effectively.
