The #HandsoffMkhwanazi march turned chaotic when marchers made a U-turn to the South African Police Service Provincial Head Office in Durban to show their support for KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
The march was supposed to start at Curries Fountain Sports Development Stadium and end at Hoy Park.
It was intended to show support for Mkhwanazi after he made damning allegations against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu for interfering in police investigations and disbanding a task team investigating political killings.
MKHWANAZI MARCH TAKES UNEXPECTED U-TURN
The march was nearing its end when protesters suddenly turned in a different direction.
Police rushed to block the marchers; some were standing outside the headquarters with their guns and shields to protect themselves from the protesters.
The South African spoke to one of the marchers, who chose to remain anonymous, on why they redirected the protest to the SAPS headquarters.”
“To be honest, we are angry and sick and tired of what’s happening in this country. Mkhwanazi is a hero for being brave enough to tell us of the hidden things in this country. The president did not show that he took this thing seriously and just put Mchunu on leave while he was supposed to suspend him.”
“That’s why we are here today to show support for Mkhwanazi. We, as South Africans, are saying Hands off Mkhwanazi. This country must be free from thieves and criminals,” said the anonymous protester.
NATIONAL POLICE COMMISSIONER URGES THE PUBLIC TO COMPLY WITH THE COMMISSION OF ENQUIRY IMPLEMENTED
National Police Commissioner Fanie Masemola urged the public to comply with the commission of enquiry that the president has implemented.
“From my side, all I’m requesting from society is that the president has spoken and there is a commission appointed; let’s give the commission time to do its work. Let us continue with our lives, but at the same time let’s work with the police,” said Masemola.
He added that citizens should not damage any infrastructure and should behave responsibly.
He says, “Don’t even think of damaging a light pole or a dustbin. Let’s behave, let’s be responsible and wait for the process that has been announced by the president. Let us cooperate with police.”
What are your thoughts on the president implementing a commission of enquiry to investigate the allegations made by Mkhwanazi?
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