Motlhabane applauds SAPS for rescuing Ditsobotla Mayor from 12 hour hostage

Community Safety and Transport Management MEC, Dr Mpho Motlhabane applauded the South African Police Service officers who managed to rescue the Mayor of Ditsobotla Local Municipality, Cllr Daniel Buthelezi during the 12 hour hostage which took place in the Municipal offices last night.

The Mayor was rescued with no injuries after been held hostage by members of the community. He was released following successful negotiations that culminated in the arrest of 32 suspects.

The hostage takers were allowed to get into two minibuses as part of their demands, but were arrested few minutes later after departing from municipal offices. Municipal offices were set alight during the process.

The arrested suspects aged between 24 and 52 years are expected to appear in the Lichtenburg Magistrate Court soon, facing charges of kidnapping, arson and attempted murder.

Motlhabane said the police have executed their work to rescue the Mayor with diligence and that shown the capability of handling any criminal activity in the Province.

"Now criminals who masquerade as protesters will know that the arm of the law is short, effective and decisive. You now get arrested immediately due swift responsiveness of the law enforcement agencies.

This will serve as a deterrent to criminals and end the violence that often undermine dialogue"; said Motlhabane.
He further pleads with the public to remain calm and restraint. "Let us all respect that due processes of the law must unfold without hindrances. When a suspect is apprehended and charged, the matter is handed over to prosecutors and magistrates to process. As law abiding citizens, ours must be to allow the law to take its course,” concluded Motlhabane.
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