Rustenburg - North West Community Safety and Transport Management MEC Mokgantshang Motlhabane on Friday, appealed for calm in Majakaneng south of Brits following violent protest.
He requested protesters to engage in a peaceful demonstrations and avoid any unlawful conduct.
“We humbly request protesters not to victimise innocent people and damage public and private property. We are living in a democratic environment and we need to conduct ourselves in a civilised manner. We should engage in peaceful marches and stop damaging properties.”
Five trucks were torched and two police vehicles damaged since the protest started on Wednesday, four other vehicles were reportedly damaged on Thursday when the protesters pelted passing motorists with stones.
Four men aged between 19 and 27 were arrested on Thursday on charges of public violence and malicious damage to property. They were expected to appear in the Brits Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
The N4 high way was closed in Majakaneng on Friday morning, but was later opened.
Motlhabane appeals to motorists to be more vigilant and cooperate when diverted to alternative routes.
“In a situation like this, it is important to advise motorists using the road to cooperate with our traffic and all law enforcement agencies that we have deployed in the area. They are there to protect your life and your property against these violent protesters, therefore, we request you to be patient and cooperative as they direct you to divert to safer alternative routes. It is for your safety,” he said.
He said law enforcement officers would be on the look-out to ensure that the situation was under control and warned those who would be found on the wrong side of the law that they would be arrested and face criminal charges.
African News Agency