Govt condemns violence against foreign nationals

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Pretoria - Government has warned instigators of violence directed at foreign nationals that they will face the full might of the law.

This comes after attacks on foreign nationals in townships around the Vaal and Gauteng, which were preceded by incidents of looting shops owned by foreign nationals.

“These acts of violence are pure criminal activities, and those found guilty will face the full might of the law,” said Acting Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) CEO, Phumla Williams.

“We strongly condemn violence not only on foreign nationals but also on South Africans. South Africa is a democratic country that accommodates foreign nationals that are in this country legally.

“We commend the swift action by the South African Police Services in apprehending about 100 people associated with the recent lawlessness,” Williams added.

She said in the spirit of Africa Month, government called on all South Africans and foreign nationals to live in harmony.

“Criminal activities against each other will not be tolerated, as such acts impact negatively on the country’s economy and image.

“Government will, in line with one of its priorities of fighting crime and creating a safe and secure environment for all its citizens, do all in its power to ensure that any form of violence is rooted out, and citizens live without fear of being attacked by criminals.” – SAnews.gov.za