DA: Send army to Alexandra

2008-05-14 11:13

Johannesburg - The army could help strained police stop xenophobic attacks in Alexandra, the Democratic Alliance said on Wednesday.

"The army should only be used in a civilian context in case of serious emergency. But I believe we may have reached that stage," said party representative John Moodey.

Police had not been able to bring the situation under control and faced the threat of live ammunition being used against them, endangering their lives and the lives of Alexandra residents.

"They should either be reinforced so that they can, or the army should be brought in to back them up."

The African National Congress Youth League called for calm saying the attacks may compromise genuine grievances.

"We call on communities both organised and unorganised to remain vigilant and protect the integrity of their struggles, and not to resort to violence," said League spokesperson Zizi Kodwa.

Three people have been killed since Sunday and on Tuesday night three teenage boys were stabbed in the attacks described by Gauteng safety and security MEC Firoz Cachalia as "spontaneous acts of xenophobic hatred".

Foreigners have been targeted in the attacks and have been taking refuge with the police.

- SAPA