The police in Limpopo are investigating the circumstances that led to a violent incident during political party campaigns at Juju Valley in Seshego, near Polokwane, on Sunday.
They confirmed that they were probing cases of attempted murder after two people, including a minor, sustained gunshot wounds.
The violence erupted during a campaign event between rival political parties, the ANC and EFF, leading to an escalation that endangered the life of a nine-year-old child.
The police and emergency medical services rushed to the scene after they were alerted to the incident, providing immediate assistance to the minor girl.
Police condemn violence
Another case was later reported after it was established that a 25-year-old man was shot during the scuffle.
In a statement, the police said that with the information they have at this stage, several other people sustained injuries after the members of the political parties attacked each other with stones and fired gunshots.
The provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe, has strongly condemned the violence, emphasising that such behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
Hadebe reiterated the commitment of the SA Police Service (SAPS) to ensuring that the people responsible for the violence are brought to justice.
Criminality disguised as political activism
“We deplore this senseless act of violence that has resulted in injuries to innocent individuals, including a child,” said Hadebe.
“The safety and security of our communities, especially during the election period, is of utmost importance.
“The SAPS will intensify its efforts to maintain law and order and ensure the perpetrators of this heinous act face the full might of the law.
“As we approach the general elections, we urge the members of the public to be aware of criminality disguised as political activism, which seeks to hijack public grievances to advance instability.”
