8 Nigerian nationals, who allegedly attacked police and damaged their vehicles in Kimberley, have been arrested. The Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola has welcomed the arrest of the 8 suspects.
8 Nigerian nationals were taken into custody
Officers were following up on information that 1 of the Nigerian nationals was apparently in possession of drugs. While conducting a search, a large group of Nigerians, allegedly attacked police officers. Police members then fired rubber bullets to disperse the crowd.
Allegedly attacked police and damaged their vehicles
One suspect was arrested for illegal possession of drugs and three suspects were arrested for public violence. They were detained at Kimberley Police Station.
“We will not allow such lawless behaviour, we are processing the suspects and working with Home Affairs to determine if they are legally or illegally in the country,” Otola said.
During processing, the suspects allegedly broke windows at the police station.
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Additional charges of malicious damage to property have been added to the charge sheet.
Additional charges of malicious damage
Meanwhile, another group of Nigerians later approached the Police Station and apparently threatened to retaliate. The Operational Commander warned the group to disperse.
“Police will continue to stamp the authority of the state in the Northern Cape Province,” Otola concluded.
However, upon dispersing, the group supposedly damaged police vehicles. Another 4 suspects were arrested for malicious damage to property.
Arrests welcomed
Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola has condemned this behaviour.
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Otola stated that those who prevent police from exercising their duties will be dealt with harshly.
