The South African Police Service (SAPS) in KwaZulu-Natal has applied for an urgent court order to prevent a group called 'March and March' from marching in Thekwini and to protect the public from potential violence. The group, led by Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, Xolani Zuma, and other senior members, is accused of planning to set fire to the Department of Home Affairs office.
According to Brigadier Thamsanqa Jeremiah Gama, the head of law enforcement within SAPS KwaZulu-Natal, the police received intelligence about a planned attack on the Department of Home Affairs office. The office provides services to asylum seekers, and Gama warned that an attack could put many lives at risk. He cited recent incidents of arson and vandalism in the area.
The police application, which is currently being heard in the High Court in Thekwini, seeks to prevent the group from marching, threatening, or intimidating citizens, and from inciting violence or blocking roads and sidewalks. The applicants, including the Minister of Police, the KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, and the Mayor of Thekwini, are seeking to protect the public and prevent a breakdown in law and order.
The group 'March and March' has been accused of planning to take revenge for the killing of a Ugandan man. Gama stated that the intelligence warnings were credible and that the police could not wait for the situation to escalate before seeking court intervention. He emphasized that the situation was urgent and required immediate attention from the court.
The police are also seeking to protect their own operations and prevent disruptions to their duties. Gama stated that the applicants were acting in their official capacities and were relying on Section 38(d) of the Constitution, which allows for the initiation of court proceedings to protect public interests and constitutional rights.
Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, the leader of 'March and March', has stated that anyone making allegations against the group must prove them. The court application is currently being heard, and a decision is pending. The police are seeking to prevent a potentially violent situation and protect the public and their own operations.
The situation in Thekwini has been tense in recent times, with reports of arson and vandalism. The police are taking steps to prevent further incidents and maintain law and order in the area. The court decision will be crucial in determining the course of events and the potential consequences for the group 'March and March' and its leaders.
Key points
- The South African Police Service has applied for an urgent court order to prevent a group called 'March and March' from marching in Thekwini and to protect the public from potential violence.
- The group is accused of planning to set fire to the Department of Home Affairs office, which provides services to asylum seekers.
- The police are seeking to prevent the group from inciting violence, blocking roads, and intimidating citizens.
