The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng has arrested 15 suspects in connection with incidents of public violence that occurred during the recent service delivery protests in Ratanda.
Police confirmed that while arrests have been made for public violence, no suspects have yet been arrested in connection with the alleged arson attack on the Executive Mayor’s former house.
According to SAPS, investigations into the burning of the mayor’s residence are continuing, with detectives following up on all available leads.
“The South African Police Service remains deployed in the area to maintain law and order and will continue to investigate all criminal acts committed during the unrest,” SAPS said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths of two people during the protests. The investigation follows allegations that police fired at protesters, resulting in fatalities and injuries.
The two victims have been identified as Sipho Chipu Motaung and Katleho Moloi, who lost their lives during the Ratanda service delivery protest.
The unrest erupted as residents demonstrated over ongoing water supply challenges in Ratanda, with tensions escalating into violent clashes that resulted in damage to property, arrests and the loss of life.
Government has urged residents to remain calm while investigations continue and efforts are made to restore stability in the community.
