Govt warns against xenophobia

2010-08-05 12:16

Cape Town - Cabinet on Thursday again warned perpetrators of violence, including xenophobia, would face the full might of the law.

Briefing the media following Wednesday's regular Cabinet meeting, government spokesperson Themba Maseko said Cabinet had noted the progress made in the fight against attacks on foreign nationals.

"The incidents of violence and looting of property reported thus far points to criminality more than xenophobia," he said.

Violence and destruction of property against anyone was a crime and government would ensure that anyone who advocated or participated in violent activities against foreigners would be apprehended.

"Government takes any threat of violence, whether perceived or real, very seriously and our security forces will not hesitate to take action against the perpetrators of any kind of violence," Maseko said.

All South Africans had a responsibility to co-operate with the law enforcement agencies to ensure the country continued to be safe for all who lived within the borders.

Anyone found to be involved in planning or attacking foreign nationals could expect to face the full might of the law.

The inter-ministerial committee would continue to monitor the situation to ensure no further incidents or threats of violence took place.

"Government calls on South Africans to join hands and say 'no to xenophobia, no to violence'," Maseko said.
 

- SAPA