DURBAN - President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned that government will not tolerate violence, looting or intimidation, adding that illegal immigration cannot be used as a pretext for criminal activity.
Addressing the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ramaphosa said government was taking action against lawlessness amid growing concerns over attacks on businesses and incidents of intimidation in eThekwini.
The President warned that such incidents threaten public safety, economic activity and investor confidence, while deepening divisions within communities.
He said economic prosperity depended on social stability, adding that businesses could not thrive in an environment characterised by violence, fear and lawlessness.
“Economic prosperity depends on social stability. Business cannot flourish where there is violence, where there is intimidation, and where there is lawlessness.
“Investment cannot thrive where people live in fear or where communities are divided against one another.
“The events of July 2021 reminded us of the terrible consequences of instability. They also reminded us of the importance of protecting the democratic institutions and constitutional values upon which our society rests.
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“In recent weeks, we were once again witness to disturbing incidents of violence, intimidation and attacks on businesses. These acts cannot be tolerated.”
Ramaphosa said protecting businesses and communities from violence was essential to maintaining confidence in the local economy and safeguarding South Africa’s democratic institutions.