Despite calls from the Western Cape Education Department and cops for laaities to refrain from taking part in Guy Fawkes activities, there have been several reports of vandalism and smearing across the Cape Flats.
Since this morning laaities have been roaming the streets, smearing people and damaging cars and even homes as part of Guy Fawkes “celebrations”.
A boy is attacking another boy with paint in Mitchells Plain. Picture Henk Kruger
Police are investigating a matter in Elsies River where a man was smeared and assaulted by a gang of kids in Halt Road.
The man is seen crossing the road in an attempt to get away from the group, but they follow him and then attack him by hitting him with paint-covered cloth and stockings.
One of the boys are even seen running towards him with a can of paint.
Elsies River kids attack an innocent man. Video supplied
Cops are on high alert in Lavender Hill after children stoned several vehicles as part of the day’s “celebrations”.
In Bonteheuwel another group of kids were terrorising ‘innocent people including the elderly” by smearing them with paint and nugget.
Ward Councillor Angus McKenzie said parents must take responsibility for their children’s actions.
Bonteheuwel laaities smearing people with nugget and paint. Picture supplied
The assaulting of innocent people including the elderly by these children cannot be accepted,” McKenzie said.
“The 'smearing' of nugget and paint and assault of people by children that should be in school is a disgusting and unacceptable action. The amount of Law Enforcement resources being required to deal with this issue vs dealing with real crime in itself is criminal.
“Parents of these children must take responsibility for their children's action.”
In Mitchells Plain kids went on rampage stoning cars and smearing innocent people. Video: Tracey Adams/ ANA
UPDATE
Mayoral Committee member for Safety and Security, JP Smith has reiterated that there are no designated sites for shooting klappertjies tonight.
"In response to numerous calls received, I’d like to reiterate that there are no such sites, as indicated in our original communication on the matter in October," Smith said.
"The ED for Safety and Security did however instruct Fire and Rescue Service staff and their Law Enforcement counterparts to monitor the three sites that we demarcated for fireworks on Diwali, in case people arrive there.
"The City’s enforcement staff are also paying attention to numerous complaints received about groups of youths running amok in a number of areas, targeting members of the public and stoning vehicles.
"This has unfortunately become a common occurrence on Guy Fawkes Day, and one that is difficult to police, as it is sporadic and the groups usually run away at the sight of any enforcement presence."
Smith also reminds the public that the discharging of fireworks without a permit is illegal.
He adds: "Residents can lodge complaints about Guy Fawkes related matters with the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre by dialing 021 480 7700 from a cellphone."