Residents urged to comment on train arson by 31 January | Western Cape Government

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Residents urged to comment on train arson by 31 January

28 January 2020

The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, reminds residents to make their submissions on the investigation into SAPS’ inability to bring anyone to book over the destruction to railway infrastructure in the province by 31 January 2020. The investigation is being led by the Western Cape Police Ombudsman (WCPO), Mr JJ Brand.

On 12 December 2019, a notice was published in the Provincial Government Gazette inviting comments from the public on the investigation before 31 January 2020. Minister Fritz has called on members of the public to ensure their comment is submitted by the deadline. Please find government gazette attached.

Minister Fritz said, “I call on citizens to make their submissions to the WCPO.  Submissions regarding the investigation can be made up until the 31 January 2020.”

“Our railway infrastructure is on the verge of collapse. This past weekend, yet another train was alight between Kentemade and Century railway stations, destroying 5 carriages. A week prior to that, a carriage was burnt down in Retreat station. This is a deliberate attack on our railway infrastructure, and on the livelihoods and wellbeing of our people. Solutions must be found which ensure that perpetrators are successfully arrested and convicted by SAPS,” said Minister Fritz.

The written representations should be marked for the attention of Mr JJ Brand and delivered by hand, post, e-mail or fax as follows:

By hand: 6th Floor, NBS Waldorf Building, 80 St Georges Mall, Cape Town 8001;

By post: Private Bag X9043, Cape Town 8000;

By e-mail: ombudsman@wcpo.gov.za; or

By fax: 021 483 0660.

Attention broadcasters: please see English audio link attached

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