Police Minister Bheki Cele briefed the public regarding the recent unrest in Phoenix, north of Durban, In his speech, he highlighted that the South African Police Service is hard at work in dissecting the causes and effects of the wanton destruction of infrastructure, warehouses and the looting of business premises. 

He also said that the number of people who died during civil unrest in the country three weeks ago had now increased to 36. "Two others died from the brutal injuries they sustained after being assaulted," Cele said

He also mentioned that 22 suspects had since been arrested and several cases were being investigated. In total, police are investigating 52 cases of attempted murder and 9 cases of common assault, and 16 cases of assault GBH.  

Two were burnt to death.

 

The minister said that  Police investigations continue and these figures will be updated. He further clarified that what happened in Phoenix were criminal acts of the worst kind which also took a racial turn. " These acts have no place in our society and the perpetrators will be arrested and prosecuted. A team of (31) experienced detectives from the province and national, have been deployed to investigate, make arrests and attend court cases to ensure justice prevails." 

Cele said that they will continue working closely with the communities, their investigations have led to the arrest of 22 suspects so far. Some of these suspects are allegedly connected to several murder cases, while others face charges relating to attempted murder, malicious damage to property, and defeating the ends of justice.