The NPA has affirmed that the authority and its leadership will be working closely to monitor the developments of the violent lootings, whilst coordinating with government departments to ensure accountability.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has condemned the violence and looting in the country, and has committed to prosecuting those arrested for conduct. In a statement released on Monday, 12 July 2021, the NPA stated that South Africans have the right to voice their discontentment through various lawful channels, but emphasised that the violent protests and criminal actions served to undermine the rule of law.
The NPA stated that the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), together with its leadership, is monitoring developments. The authority further stated that the violence is not only criminal, but it believes that it will destroy the livelihoods of people, especially the poor and vulnerable. The NPA also stated that it has confidence that law enforcement agencies and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will be addressing the situation and doing what is necessary to prevent further violence and criminality.
Furthermore, the NPA stated that it is coordinating with relevant government departments to ensure full transparent accountability for anyone accused of committing or inciting crimes linked to the lootings. The authority also stated that the Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions (DNDPP) and the Head of the National Prosecutions Service (NPS) reportedly advised the Directors of Public Prosecutions in affected divisions to prioritise these matters by referring cases to prosecutors.
See the post below.
NPA condemns violence and looting#ViolentProtests#NoToCriminality pic.twitter.com/WoL8BE3sxX
— NPASouthAfrica (@NPA_Prosecutes) July 12, 2021
