Community turns against police after suspect walks
An angry Limpopo community has vandalised a police station after a suspected fraudster who allegedly took their money in exchange for the promise of jobs, was set free.
Police said community of Ga-Mampa attacked the Mecklenburg police station on Wednesday night.
The community had reported the man after he allegedly collected money from community members and promised jobs which never materialised.
"The community became angry when they received information that the man was released, at approximately 20:00 last night they stormed the CSC (Community Service Centre) and pelted it with stones," said police spokeswoman Colonel Ronel Otto.
Two sliding doors and several windows at the CSC were damaged. No police members were injured.
A total of 23 people, 18 women and five men, were arrested for public violence and malicious damage to property.
The situation was being monitored on Thursday.
Provincial police commissioner, General Nneke Ledwaba said he was shocked and outraged over this incident.
"It is a very sad day when members of the community attack the upholders of the law in the country," he said.
"There are various other ways in which members of the community can express their dissatisfaction or concern," he stressed.