Police probe lack of social distancing, large crowd at Mlangeni event
Police are investigating the failure of mourners to adhere to social distancing at an event at the home of struggle icon Andrew Mlangeni on Tuesday.
The African National Congress (ANC) has been accused of flouting lockdown regulations after pictures of large crowds and a lack of social distancing were seen at an event to mark the homecoming of Andrew Mlangeni's coffin.
Party members, including Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula, responded to the criticism by saying that residents arrived spontaneously as the coffin arrived in Dube.
Many took to social media voicing their frustrations of not being allowed to bury family members due to regulations.
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Police spokesperson Vish Naidoo says numerous people reached out to the police with complaints about the incident.
"The regulations in terms of the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002 makes provision for the dispersing of crowds who gather illegally and to hold accountable a person or persons who convenes or organizes illegal gatherings.
"Therefore, with regards to this matter in question, a case of contravention of Section 48 (1) (a) of the Disaster Management Act 57 of 2002 will be opened for investigation.”
Once the investigation is complete the matter will be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for a decision.