Violence, looting a crime against state - Cele
Police Minister Bheki Cele has reiterated the belief that the violence and looting in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng are orchestrated by people linked to former president Jacob Zuma.
Cele visited Mamelodi Mall in Tshwane on Wednesday, which was looted overnight.
"It does look like it is a crime against the state and relevant structures will have to work in that kind of professionality," he said.
"For instance, somebody sent the information last night of the person who is giving all the details of the pipeline moving from Durban to Johannesburg. What are you going to loot there? Unless to just cause damage and terrorise South Africa," added Cele.
On Tuesday, State Security Minister Ayanda Dlodlo confirmed they are investigating the possible involvement of former senior State Security officials linked to Zuma.
According to reports Thulani Dlomo, who ran the SSA's special operations unit, is a prime suspect.
Cele did not confirm this but however, said the relevant authorities are investigating.
"We have said that there is a so-called social media war here and our guys are working on that. Names have been identified and our structures have been instructed to follow up on that," he said.
Meanwhile, 1 234 people have been arrested for looting and damaging property.
The state has instructed the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to oppose bail for all the suspects.
