Provincial Disaster Management Centre still on High Alert and Supporting Municipalities Affected by Farm Worker’s Protest Action

The Western Cape Disaster Management Centre is still on high alert as protests continue to disrupt in Swellendam and Paarl this morning.

Mitigation levels are in place following the unrest throughout the Province that took place on Wednesday. The Provincial Disaster Management Centre and the SAPS Provincial Joint Operations Centre (Prof JOC) are still activated regardless of an agreed arrangement for the suspension of protests.Areas still under threat include Swellendam, Paarl, Broodkraal, Bergrivier, De Doorns and Bonnievale.

Jacqui Pandaram, acting head of centre, says “We sympathise with the family of the deceased young man from Wolseley as well as those injured during the protests. We urge the public to report any incidents to their local municipalities who are co-ordinating on the ground.”

In some areas basic services such as clinics and schools have been closed today.

The Provincial Disaster Management Centre would like to appeal to community faith based organisations, and NGO’s to assist with recovery and support initiatives. The main priority is for small traumatised communities to recuperate from these disturbances. The short and long-term effects of the unrest on communities will be monitored and partnerships with CBOs are encouraged.

The main priorities are for the wellbeing of learners who are writing examinations and for calm to resume in affected areas.

Various Western Cape Government departments and emergency service providers are working together to manage the safety and security of citizens in the Province.