Police seek suspects in IEC warehouse intimidation case

IEC

Cape Town — Police are investigating a case of intimidation after a group of individuals stormed an Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) warehouse, demanding access to ballot boxes.

National police spokesperson, Colonel Athlenda Mathe, said the event took place on Tuesday night at the IEC warehouse in Booysens, Johannesburg. She detailed the event and she emphasised that no items were taken from the warehouse during the intrusion, EWN reported.

“They demanded entry into the warehouse and access to the ballot papers, stating they wanted to ensure all ballot papers had been counted,” Mathe explained.

“As the police, we have registered a case of intimidation. We are studying all evidence and footage at our disposal to apprehend those behind the incident.” she added.

Police are currently gathering evidence and interviewing various witnesses to conclude their investigation.

According to IOL, further investigations revealed that the group comprised between 20 to 40 suspects, after initial reports showed that 15 people were involved.

Addressing speculations, Mathe dismissed allegations linking the group to the Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party, led by former president Jacob Zuma.

“For now, we are looking for the group of suspects. We do not know who they are affiliated with or which party they belong to. We don’t want to make assumptions.  We are busy with investigations, taking witness statements, and still investigating the motive and criminal element to it.” she said.

In a separate incident, a Malawian national was arrested after allegedly using a deceased person’s identity document to obtain accreditation for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s inauguration. The individual has been charged with fraud and contravention of the Immigration Act and remains in police custody.

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Compiled by Matthew Petersen

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