Central SA
Ten more arrested amidst Phomolong violence─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 05:45 Wed, 19 Apr 2023
Ten more people were arrested on Monday for public violence, while three minors were release under the custody of their parents.
OFM News reported that on Monday morning, residents continued to barricade most streets in Phomolong and attempted to barricade the R70 road, while schools continue to be disrupted.
Free State police spokesperson, Stephen Thakeng reports that the number of suspects arrested since unrest started in Phomolong is forty people, who were arrested for public violence, incitement to commit public violence and conspiracy to commit murder. This includes 13 minors who are between the ages of 15 and 17 years old.
According to Thakeng, the suspects will appear in the Hennenman Magistrate Court. Those arrested yesterday will appear on 19 April, the first 2- suspects on 26 April and the last ten on 9 May.
“The situation is still tense but Welkom Public Order Policing members are out in numbers to ensure there is stability. The arrests were affected as residents were barricading the R70 road and main streets in Phomolong with burning tyres, large stones, refuse and trees. Residents must be aware that the SAPS will never allow a national road like the R70 to be closed,” Thakeng concludes.
