KUGOMPO CITY – The South African Police Service in the Eastern Cape recorded 229 arrests yesterday, 30 June, as 28 marches took place across the province. The arrests comprise 208 undocumented foreign nationals and 21 criminal arrests related to the protests.
According to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata started the day with a morning parade and media briefing in KuGompo, followed by an aerial patrol across the Buffalo City District to monitor the situation from the air.
“The largest marches were observed in Bizana, Lusikisiki, Flagstaff, and Mthatha, with all gatherings remaining largely peaceful under the watchful eye of law enforcement,” she said. “The province remains largely calm and stable, with SAPS maintaining a strong visible presence across all districts.”
Gantana added that pockets of volatility were observed in KwaNompumelelo, Ducats, Duncan Village, Bizana, and Lusikisiki. “Police responded swiftly and successfully contained the situation. These areas continue to be closely monitored.”
She stated that a total of 21 criminal arrests were recorded across the province, with the following district breakdown: Alfred Nzo recorded 7 arrests, Amathole recorded 5 arrests, Buffalo City recorded 8 arrests, and Sarah Baartman recorded 1 arrest.
“These arrests include 6 suspects in Bhisho for looting two spaza shops, 6 suspects in Tabankulu for looting a foreign-owned shop, 2 suspects in Stutterheim for looting a spaza shop, and 1 suspect in Alexandria for incitement to commit violence,” she said. “Additional protest-related incidents in Qonce and Kabega Park remain under investigation.”
Gantana also noted that other notable arrests include 3 suspects in Humewood for fraud, possession of counterfeit goods, and abetting foreign nationals, with items confiscated including a laptop, printer, computer tower, counterfeit soccer jerseys, and R70,300 in cash.
A further 76 undocumented foreign nationals were also detained at this location for fraudulent documentation. In KwaDwesi, two suspects were arrested for attempted robbery.
The Provincial Commissioner reiterated that no lawlessness will be tolerated and urges communities to remain peaceful.
“Anyone found committing criminal acts during protests will be arrested and prosecuted. Operations continue across all districts, with heightened vigilance in identified hotspots,” Gantana concluded.
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