The company’s warehouse in KwaZulu-Natal was invaded and vandalised during last week’s large scale unrest and violence that originally erupted in the province before also spreading to Gauteng.

SRSA CEO Lubin Ozoux says groups of unidentified individuals were seen in videos circulating on social media making off with tyres in the warehouse.

Ozoux says stock and assets estimated at approximately R90m were stolen and damage.

Some 70 000 tyres were stolen from the warehouse.

“We strongly condemn these illegal actions. Looted commodities are being offered at prices much lower than the normal pricing on numerous social media posts. This is a clear indication that these items have been looted. We do not support, under any circumstance, the purchase of goods from anyone other than reputable manufacturers and suppliers,” says Ozoux.

Ozoux warns that many will lose their livelihoods as businesses are unable to continue operations.

“Supply chains have already been affected and many are struggling to access basics such as food, household essentials and medication.

“Thieves prey on people looking for the best price. At a time that there is such a large volume of illegally obtained goods now circulating in the market, people will need to have their wits about them to ensure they do not indirectly support this thievery.”

Ozoux has pleaded with the public not to buy goods through informal channels as it can encourage more criminal acts and further looting.

“As a brand we lead by example, and now is the time to live by our values. We are appealing to the public to refrain from purchasing any suspicious items for sale on social media.  We ask that you discourage friends and family from purchasing the same.”

Jacaranda News