Residents barricaded the road last night when they were protesting the arrests of community members. Police spokesperson, Sabata Mokgwabone, says 19 suspects were arrested yesterday after being linked to crimes ranging from alleged murder, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, kidnapping, vigilantism, and public violence. The suspects, aged between 19 and 50, included three females. The cases were registered earlier this year and investigations were launched, leading to the arrests yesterday.

After the arrests were made last night, protests resulted in the shutdown of the N12 road. Police, however, say no reports were received of damage to property. All the arrested community members are expected to appear in the Bloemhof Magistrate’s Court tomorrow.

In March, violence erupted at the Boitumelong Sportsground in Bloemhof where North West premier, Job Mokgoro, was due to address members of the community about their concerns.

On Monday 24 June 2019, an 18-year-old man was admitted to the hospital after being assaulted severely at extension 10 in Boitumelong, Bloemhof. He later died at the hospital.

Members of the community are requested to remain calm and refrain from embarking on illegal criminal acts such as barricading roads, and give the police an opportunity to do their work without meddling.

OFM News/Marvin Ntsane