72 confirmed dead as violent protests and looting continues in KZN and Gauteng
It’s almost a week now after violent protests erupted in KwaZulu-Natal and flared up to Gauteng. It has been reported that at least 72 people have died during riots.
The police have since confirmed the death of at least 72 casualties. However, some deaths are said to have resulted due to stampedes that occurred inside malls. Arrests have been in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga and the Northern Cape province in relation to the lootings.
However, speaking to the media the police have indicated that several people died in stampedes as looters rushed forward crushing them.
As of Tuesday, it has been reported that more 1 234 people have been arrested in relation to the lootings at shopping centres, malls, warehouses and so on. However, KwaZulu-Natal accounts for 549 arrests, Gauteng 683, Mpumalanga 1 and Northern Cape 1.
72 confirmed dead as violent protests and looting continues in KZN and Gauteng
Reports have it that in KwaZulu-Natal the police are investigating 27 cases in the province, 14 cases of murder and 13 inquests. On the other hand, Gauteng police are investigating 45 cases, 19 murder cases and 27 inquests.
Muridili stated that the majority of the inquest dockets dealt with stampedes that happened during shoplifting and mall lootings, while some deaths and injuries were caused by ATM explosions and shootings. There have been increasing calls for President Cyril Ramaphosa to declare a state of emergency in KwaZulu-Natal, however, there are parties that believe that this isn’t necessary, reports eNCA.
However, it was recently reported that Video: Police Officer in full uniform caught looting. Another police officer in full uniform was caught looting last night. Those expected to stop the problem are now taking part in the looting. SAPS never rests in Mzansi. In the video, the police officer accepts he has been looting as seen by the evidence in his car.
Citizens protecting their goods are surprised to see one person they think they can rely on looting from them. All the violence is not stopping and seems to be getting worse after the President addressed the nation.
Some videos of people being beaten by the authorities are circulating but destruction seems to have worsened. Building M13 in Durban was set on fire last night again. Another warehouse in River Horse Valley in Durban was also set on fire. The destruction of property will cost the nation at large and issues need to be addressed.