As the lockdown continues and the coronavirus pandemic threatens the livelihood of families and homes across the country, people are becoming desperate. The desperation, frustration and other contributing factors have led to a spike in looting and protests.
To date, many supermarkets and other stores have been looted since the lockdown has been instated.
The incidents are as follows:
– A supermarket on Halt Road in Elsies River was ambushed by 15 suspects on April 22. Approximately R3000 worth in products were stolen from the supermarket, and four suspects between the ages of 32 and 43 have been arrested in connection with the crime.
– On the same day, police caught suspects in the process of breaking into a butcher’s shop.
– Police in Delft are currently searching for 50 suspects who looted a supermarket in the area. Approximately R4000 worth of grocery items were stolen from the store.
– West Coast police were pelted with stones in Vredenburg. A huge number of residents from the Witteklip Township – Approximately 400 residents – attacked police after looting a local spaza shop. The residents said they were hungry and had no choice as they had not received food parcels.
– Protestors have been dispersed from Baden Powell Drive in Khayelitsha, as well the the road leading from Monwabisi Beach Resort to the N2 highway. Earlier this morning [April 23], the area was in chaos as groups of people blocked the road with burning tyres and debris.
– A Checkers truck was looted when residents orchestrated the incident in Bishop Lavis. The truck was stoned before residents began carrying away groceries.
