Mthethwa calls for calm in Brits

(Image: GCIS)

The deceased were allegedly shot by police and the matter is being investigated by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).

"We want to reiterate the point that the public have Constitutional rights to protest and raise whatever issues they may be [discontented] with. These very rights do not imply that people must be violent, destroy property, attack police and intimidate others.

"However, as we have seen on many occasions, many protests have been accompanied by serious provocations, intimidations, public violence and even elements of criminality," he said.

Mthethwa reiterated that there was no culture of impunity within the South African Police Service (SAPS). As the matter is being probed by the IPID, the minister urged the public to give the institution time to conduct its investigation.

(Image: Chaoborus, via Wikimedia Commons))

He also urged the public to come forward and give the IPID any information or evidence that might help in the investigation.

"We can assure the public that if any official is found guilty, they will face the consequences. For now, none of us should pre-empt or pre-judge the matter before it is concluded."

Deputy Police Minister Makhotso Sotyu will be in Brits this morning, where she will be briefed on the policing situation in the area, including what led to the clashes between the police and protesters. Sotyu, accompanied by the SAPS North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Zukiswa Mbombo, will also visit the families of the deceased.