Police in the Eastern Cape are calling on community leaders to help restore calm after violent protests in the Kouga region.
A planned anti-illegal immigration march in Oceanview, Jeffreys Bay, turned violent on Thursday.
At least 23 spaza shops were looted, 69 people were arrested for public violence, and one person was injured.
Several foreign nationals were also moved to a temporary shelter for their safety.Â
Police spokesperson Nobuntu Gantana said extra police officers and law enforcement resources have been deployed to stabilise the area.
“The Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, has confirmed that manpower has been bolstered in the district and also called on local leaders to address residents so that they can act responsibly and within the bounds of the law. He stated that police will not hesitate to act on lawlessness.”
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