Three community members were arrested in Mpumalanga after police vehicles were pelted with stones during a protest.
Image: SAPS
Three suspects, aged between 18 and 43, were arrested in Dullstroom, Mpumalanga, at around 10pm on Friday for public violence and malicious damage to state property.
Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said officers from Dullstroom SAPS and the Middelburg Public Order Policing (POP) unit conducted an operation that led to the arrest of two suspects, aged 18 and 34.
“The individuals are alleged to have instigated and influenced a community protest on 15 May 2025, during which three SAPS vehicles were damaged after being stoned by protesters,” she said.
“While the suspects were being detained, a 43-year-old male community member arrived at the police station and interfered with police duties. He reportedly intimidated and threatened officers while questioning why only two individuals had been arrested, despite more people being involved.”
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He was immediately arrested for interfering with police operations.
Ndubane said investigations and the tracing of additional suspects are ongoing. She said many community members were seen throwing stones at police vehicles during the unrest.
“All three suspects are expected to appear before the Belfast Magistrate’s Court soon, facing charges of public violence, malicious damage to state property, and interference with police duties,” she said.
Police have not ruled out the possibility of adding more charges.
Three community members were arrested in Mpumalanga after police vehicles were pelted with stones during a protest.
Image: SAPS
Meanwhile, acting provincial commissioner of police in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has welcomed the arrests and strongly urged communities to engage the relevant authorities when they have concerns.
“Communities must understand that state resources are there to serve them. Damaging these resources only hinders service delivery,” said Mkhwanazi.
“We take such acts seriously, and those responsible will face the full might of the law.”
Last year, IOL reported that three Diepsloot community leaders appeared before the Randburg Magistrate's Court after they were arrested during the violent protests.
Following the arrest of the leaders, dozens of residents gathered outside court, demanding the trio's release.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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