Issued by: Ministry of Justice
1 October 1997
Minister Dullah Omar condemns in the strongest terms the further acts of violence on the Cape Flats. Minister Omar appeals to all concerned to desist from violence. In particular, the sanctity of mosques, churches, temples and other places of worship must be respected by all. Minister Omar condemns the attack on the Valhalla Park Mosque.
Minister Omar has noted the remarks of Western Cape Premier, Hernus Kriel, with regard to alleged third force activity. In his statement Premier Kriel expresses surprise to read in newspapers that Minister Omar had information about such activities. Minister Omar is anxious that the fight against crime must not be bedevilled by cheap party politics or playing off national government against provincial government. THe fight against crime is far too serious for the people of the Western Cape. The position is that Minister Omar was telephoned by a journalist who indicated that allegations were made of the kind referred to in the report. He was asked to respond and indicated that he had been informed of such allegations, that the truth or otherwise thereof still had to be established and that he would be discussing the matter with Minister Mufamadi when he met with him on 30th September.
Minister Omar is prepared to do his bit in co-operation with national and provincial Ministers and wants to avoid any buck-passing. He has already participated in one programme in Bonteheuwel with MEC for Safety and Security, Mr Morkel, and is prepared to do so again wherever required. Both Minister Omar and MEC Morkel will be participating in the crime summit which will be held in Cape Town on 17 October 1997.
ISSUED BY PAUL SETSETSE ON BEHALF OF DR A M OMAR MP, MINISTER OF JUSTICE
Tel: 021-457507 Cel: 083 2524770