Police commissioner in Pretoria CBD amid protests
Acting National Police Commissioner Khomotso Phahlane says police will not tolerate any violent and unlawful acts.
Phahlane addressed the media in Pretoria where local residents have taken to the streets in an anti-immigrant protest.
"We caution those engaging in violent and unlawful acts that the law enforcement agencies of this country will not tolerate such conduct and will act within the confines of the law to bring those responsible to book."
Several foreign owned shops were looted this morning ahead of a planned march to the Pretoria CBD, but protest action took an unexpected turn when local residents headed to the newly reopened Desmond Tutu Refugee Centre.
Tensions ran high during a stand-off between South Africans and foreigners, but police managed to keep the two groups separated.
"Those who are inciting violence will also face criminal prosecution," says Phahlane.
Phahlane says they are calling on Tshwane communities to work with the police to restore calm.
"At this stage the situation remains under control and we hope that all of those that came to the CBD to express their grievances will be allowed to proceed to their respective destination," says Phahlane.