This comes after a string of messages on social media emerged, warning residents in Rustenburg and surrounding areas of disruptive activities that will take place from November 7 to December 31, 2018. 

Police spokesperson in the province, Adele Myburgh, told OFM News police are also investigating the origin of these messages, and they call on members of the community to refrain from further spreading these messages.

The North West towns mentioned in the WhatsApp text doing the rounds, include the Ledig, Robega, Pilanesberg, Maule, Phokeng, Phatsima and Rustenburg. It is understood that these disruptive actions have to do with unhappiness with service delivery in these areas. 

Meanwhile, police are encouraging residents of these towns to have their meetings in line with The Regulations of the Gatherings Act of 2015, which provides the guidelines for public gatherings. The Provincial Police Commissioner, Baile Motswenyane, also made an urgent appeal to all communities that embark on protests to do so peacefully and desist from committing crime.  

Motswenyane also said police will act on any person who contravenes the law. The Regulations of the Gatherings Act 2015 of 1995 is clear and regulates the holding of public gatherings and demonstrations at certain places; and provide for matters connected therewith. 

Every person has the right to assemble with other persons and to express his views on any matter freely in public and enjoy the protection of the State whilst doing so; whereas the exercise of such right shall take place peacefully and with regard to the rights of others. 

Section 3(2) explains that a convener shall no later than seven days before the date of the gathering give notice of the gathering to the responsible officer concerned or at the earliest opportunity. A Section 4 meeting will then be arranged for consultation and negotiations with all role players before the gathering is held. Conditions can be imposed in respect of holding the gathering to meet the objectives of the Act.

OFM News