By David Olalekan.
No fewer than 497 persons have been apprehended by the South African police over persistent looting of shops in Gauteng Province of the country.
According to the Police spokesperson, Brigadier Mathapelo Peters, about 74 persons were arrested on Thursday in Katlehong, bringing the total number of arrests in Johannesburg to 497.
Peters, who spoke yesterday added that although 11 deaths have been recorded during the attacks, only seven deaths were directly linked to the incidents of violence.
The police spokesman also noted that the Force will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the killings.
Reacting to the recurring attacks, the Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lt.-Gen. Elias Mawela urged citizens to respect the law, while cautioning them against circulating fake news on the social media.
“We must work together to make sure that no one gets to undermine the authority of the State and together, condemn the violence and criminality towards ensuring the safety of everyone in the Province”, the commissioner said.