Govt. probes violence in Freedom Park

25 January 2011

Gauteng’s Local Government and Housing Department has launched an investigation into the cause of violence against foreign shop owners in Freedom Park, south of Johannesburg.

A special team will probe whether shop owners have valid business licenses as well as allegations of the illegal occupation of RDP houses by foreigners.

Five people were arrested at the weekend for allegedly instigating violence against foreigners, after some shops were re-opened.

On Monday, the department closed around 35 businesses for two weeks until the investigation is complete.

Spokesperson Motsamai Motlhaolwa said they are prepared, should violence break out.

“We have put police and the JMPD (Johannesburg Metro Police Department) on alert and also our rapid response team will be on the ground assessing the situation,” said Motlhaolwa.

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