[ Home ] [ Speeches & statements ]

3 June 2008

"We suspect that these are just criminal elements that are terrorising this community so as to gain access to their businesses. We will do all we can to ensure that those who are responsible for these attacks are brought to book" said Provincial Commissioner Mashigo upon hearing about the attacks on the Bangladeshi.

The community of Bangladesh in Bloemfontein gathered at Bloemspruit police station this morning to raise their concerns regarding their safety. This comes after a number of Bangladesh citizens were threatened since last month, that, if they don't close their shops in Mangaung area, they will be shot. They allege that a number of about 25 to 30 people, some armed with guns, threatens and attacks them in their shop.

It is alleged that during the attacks two Bangladesh people were shot. The first one was shot in Grassland, Bloemspruit area on Saturday 28 June 2008 and the other one was shot twice at Heidedal on Monday, 30 June 2008. Both are in a serious but stable condition. They also allege that on Tuesday 1 June 2008, owners of the shops around Freedom Square were forced to close their businesses.

The last one was robbed this morning at about 07h00 in Freedom Square, where he alleges that about 25 people entered his shop and told him to close for good or he will be shot. They then stole his cell phone and cash and left with a promise to come back.

Enquiries:
Sergeant Thandi Mbambo
Tel: 051 507 6472
Cell: 082 455 6030

Issued by: Free State Provincial Government
3 June 2008