Minister Fritz calls for calm in St Helena Bay ahead of planned protests | Western Cape Government

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Minister Fritz calls for calm in St Helena Bay ahead of planned protests

4 September 2020

The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, calls for calm in St Helena Bay amidst reports of planned protest action tomorrow under the banner of #JusticeforLeo. Minister Fritz further wishes to convey his heartfelt sympathies to the family and community on the loss of young Leo Williams (9) who was shot and killed amidst violent protest action.

Leo was shot in the head whilst sitting indoors, reportedly by a stray bullet shot by a SAPS officer. Minister Fritz has previously written to the office of the Provincial Commissioner requesting further clarity on this matter and welcomed the investigation by Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).

Minister Fritz said, “Going forward, I will closely monitor IPID’s recommendations into the investigation and liaise with the provincial Minister of Human Settlements on related service delivery complaints. I will further engage with a local community leader to update him on these interventions in efforts to bring restore calm to the community.”  

Minister Fritz added, “I call for calm amidst reports of planned protest action in St Helena Bay tomorrow. I urge residents to refrain from any protest action which is violent and/or causes damage to property as it is both illegal and criminal.”

Minister Fritz continued, “I again wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of young Leo Williams. No parent should have to bury their child. His death is a tragedy and has devastated the community as a whole.” 

Attention broadcasters, please English Audio clips: https://clyp.it/20zfg0il

Media Enquiries: 

Cayla Ann Tomás Murray
Spokesperson for Minister Albert Fritz
Tel: 021 483 8550
Cell: 064 121 7959
Email: Cayla.murray@westerncape.gov.za