With the National Shutdown ticking closer and hints of looting coming to light, Newcastillians will see if chaos unfolds on Monday, 20 March 2023.
Nevertheless, tensions are building, especially after a video began circulating, showing the EFF recently embarking on a door-to-door campaign, garnishing people to support the shutdown and not to open businesses to avoid looting.
As the economically destructive July 2021 civil unrest remains fresh in Newcastillian’s memories, the threat of potential looting and destruction has many people asking ” how is this not being seen as a direct threat to the country, and an infringement on human rights, and why is the government allowing for this?”
But, does Newcastle have anything to stress about?
Rumours of possible looting surfaced from Osizweni, KwaZulu-Natal. While this information cannot yet be confirmed, local law enforcement is currently preparing for Monday, 20 March 2023.
Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team’s Imran Ghafoor explained that law enforcement stakeholders held a meeting to discuss the impending National Shutdown.
“The meeting involved all stakeholders, which included the SAPS (South African Police Service), the CPF (Community Policing Forum), security companies, traffic, and all others who are involved in law enforcement,” assured Ghafoor.
With all the respective role-players meeting to discuss the upcoming day, Ghafoor said, “A plan was set regarding the National Shutdown and our intelligence is on the ground gathering information.”
Adding to this, and while unable to divulge what exactly these plans are due to security reasons, Ghafoor highlighted that alongside the necessary security plans and measures, law enforcement is monitoring all points in Newcastle and in the Amajuba District as a whole.
Ghafoor stressed it was important for Newcastle resident to not let their guards down during the National Shutdown, as while he could not say anything bad would happen, the threat was there.
“Some people will, unfortunately, try to carry out criminal activities and we need to be vigilant,” emphasised Ghafoor.
With this in mind and in the build-up to the day, Ghafoor encouraged residents to contact the following numbers to report all information:
- Newcastle SAPS Radio Room – 034 314 6158
- Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team’s Imran Ghafoor – 072 632 3000
- CPF Chairperson Ismaeel Dhalech – 072 136 7677
As security measures are being implemented, what are your thoughts?
Share your views in the comment section below.
