The Minister of Police Bheki Cele has condemned the rising  violence  as protest escalate in the Free State . Ealier this week  A 52-year-old farmer was arrested over his alleged involvement in the arson and vandalism of state property during a protest outside the Senekal Magistrates Court.  Today  in a statement Minister Cele has welcomed the arrests of the first suspect involved in the violent demonstrations by a group of farmers outside the Senekal Magistrates Court.

Community members  wrecked havoc on Tuesday outside the court building, following a court appearance by two suspects accused of the murder of farm manager, Brandon Horner. The group of armed demonstrators, among them armed farmers, stormed into the court building demanding the two suspects be handed over.

 

 
 

The lawless acts that have been widely condemned, resulted in the vandalism of court property and a police vehicle was also overturned and set alight. Minister Cele is encouraged that a 52-year-old farmer has been arrested for his role in the alleged torching of the police vehicle. Cele is calling for more arrests as it is clear the criminality that took place was a collective act that threatened the rule of law. 

Justice and Correctional Services Minister Ronald Lamola on Wednesday also condemned the violence by protesting farmers in the Free State and criticised calls of mob justice by the community.  He issued a statement  urging the law enforcement authorities to ensure that the rule of law is maintained. He said an  important part of that is to ensure that those responsible for undermining the administration of justice and the destruction of public property are brought to book.