Police are worried that stolen ammunition may be used by protesters.
Over the weekend, reports have emerged that pro-Zuma supporters are planning yet another round of riots on the 10th of August. The ex-president is set to appear in court on that day. Police have voiced their concern that stolen ammunition might be used by the protestors.
The City Press reported that multiple insiders have confirmed that this riot will indeed take place. During the last round of riots and lootings that took place in KwaZulu-Natal and parts of Gauteng, ammo depots were looted, which are now believed to be in the hands of those who will take part in the upcoming protests. The Mail and Guardian has reported that the majority of the 14-tons of stolen ammo is still missing, although some of the bullets have been recovered.
Last week, some of the stolen ammo was already used when perpetrators opened fire on police in Lamontville.
Zuma is currently serving a 15-month jail sentence for contempt of court after he failed to attend multiple hearings before the Zondo Commission. The hearing on the 10th will mark the start of his trial relating to a botched arms deal. The case will be heard in the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg.
He is facing 16 counts of corruption, racketeering, fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering. Zuma pleaded not guilty to all counts, which is why the case is now resulting in a full-on court battle.
The ANC in the province appears helpless against the ongoing threats of violence and devastation running through the province. According to Rapport, the party has so many Zuma supporters that it is unable to act effectively against these concerns.
The police are apparently on high alert to avoid as much damage as possible on 10 August.