HERTZOGVILLE, Free State – An official of a political party reported a case of theft in Hertzogville after discovering that more than half of the party’s election campaign posters – valued at R32 190 – have been unlawfully removed from the streets of the town.

The 44-year-old complainant, who serves as the designated constituency officer for the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Tokologo Local Municipality, reported that on Wednesday 2 September he placed 300 electoral campaign posters throughout Hertzogville and Malebogo Location.

However, when he conducted an inspection of the posters on Sunday 11 October, he discovered that only 126 remained. A subsequent investigation revealed that 174 DA campaign posters had been unlawfully removed from Malebogo Street, Van Niekerk Street, Skool Street and the R708 Christiana Road.

Police investigation and legal warnings

Following the discovery, the complainant reported the matter to the police, and a case of theft was registered for further investigation.

The South African Police Service has taken the opportunity to remind the public that unlawfully removing any billboard, placard or poster published by a political party or candidate for the purpose of an election is prohibited by law under the Local Government: Municipal Electoral Act 27 of 2000. Such actions also contravene the Electoral Code of Conduct.

“Individuals or parties who are found to be in contravention of the regulation under this Act could be criminally liable,” the police stated in a media release.

Appeal for information

Police are urging anyone with information that could assist in the ongoing Hertzogville theft investigation to contact Detective Sergeant Setshaba Sello on 071 774 1160.

Alternatively, information can be shared by calling the CrimeStop number on 08600 10111 or by sending an anonymous tip-off on the MySAPSApp.

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