SA unrest: More arrests, more fatalities and differing views on claims of insurrection

The death toll increases from 212 to 215.

The latest fatalities were recorded in KwaZulu-Natal.

Acting Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni told media on Monday that despite last week’s grim picture, the situation had been stabilised in both KZN and Gauteng. 

“In terms of arrests, this is the latest update that we just got now, so you’ve got six arrests of the key instigators and of those arrested, three suspects had already appeared but remanded in custody for bail hearings later in the week.

“One of those who have been arrested was given bail and the details of these cases will be provided later but charges against them include incitement to commit public violence.”

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Ntshavheni added more arrests are imminent. 

The result of the week’s activity is expected to have long-lasting implications on livelihoods and the economy.

But government has assured the country they are on top of relief efforts.

“Ministers of the economic cluster are working with businesses to ensure a speedy return to full economic activity

“The cluster is considering interventions that will ensure that affected small businesses are able to return their businesses to full operation when big businesses return,” Ntshavheni said.

Meanwhile, it appears the security cluster disagrees on the root cause of the violence and looting.

Last week President Cyril Ramaphosa blamed the disruptions on a failed insurrection, labelling it a well-orchestrated attack on the economy.

But Defence minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula differed.

In a bid to try and settle the contradiction between the two officials, Ntshavheni told media that the President’s word is final. 

Watch Khumbudzo Ntshavheni below: