THE 2012 July unrest continues to haunt those implicated.
On Tuesday, 3 May, four suspects accused of inciting public violence during the July 2021 unrest appeared in the Roodepoort Magistrates Court.
Bekuyise Cebekhulu (58) from KZN, Jimmy Sibeko (44), Busisiwe Skhosana (52), and Bogadi Mahisa (49) from Gauteng face incitement to commit public violence charges.
They are alleged to have used WhatsApp chat groups, including one named "ZUMA REAL ACTIVIST 100%", to circulate inflammatory messages which are believed to have contributed to the unrest and looting in Gauteng and KZN.
All four accused were granted R1 500 bail each. Their next court appearance is scheduled for 2 July.
Hawks spokeswoman Colonel Katlego Mogale said the arrests followed a comprehensive investigation by the Hawks' Serious Organised Crime and Crimes Against the State units in Gauteng.
Mogale said the accused handed themselves over to the police through their legal representatives after the Director of Public Prosecutions authorised their arrest.
She confirmed that the charges stem from evidence gathered over the past three years, which allegedly links the suspects to calls for violent action in support of former president Jacob Zuma.
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"The investigation revealed that these individuals were active participants in WhatsApp groups that incited members of the public to engage in violent protests and looting."
She highlighted that the chats were not only inflammatory but also contained specific instructions encouraging damage to property and disruption of public order.
Mogale said more arrests are imminent as investigations continue into the July 2021 events, which left more than 350 people dead and caused widespread economic damage.
Major-General Ebrahim Kadwa, the Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commended the investigation team's work and affirmed the unit's commitment to justice.
"The DPCI shall continue to secure in court the attendance of anyone against whom sufficient evidence of committing national priority offences is obtained, without fear, favour or prejudice," said Kadwa.
