MAKHADO (LOUIS TRICHARDT) – The Democratic Alliance this week strongly condemned the conduct of certain senior police officials during the community's protest action against government's continued refusal to acknowledge the issue of heavy vehicle traffic, across the mountain on April 1.

The action followed after the death of yet another two residents of town, due to a heavy vehicle which careered out of control down the mountain. This time the victims were two primary school children.

The DA singled out the conduct of Deputy Provincial Commissioner Charles van Wyk.

"The DA wishes to state that what seems as arrogant, aggressive and unprofessional behaviour of Commissioner Charles van Wyk was contrary to the principles of Batho Pele. It seems that his rude, arrogant and aggressive behaviour not only fuelled aggression but appeared to be responsible for the ensuing chaos. It was apparently under the instruction of Commissioner Van Wyk that the N1 was closed – it was not the behaviour or the intention of the protestors," says Mrs Marie Helm, local DA leader. Her view is supported by the provincial leader of the DA, Mr Michael Holford.

"Van Wyk's aggressive behaviour rings of the apartheid era, a time when we were without an understanding of constitutional democracy. The DA calls upon the MEC for Safety and Security to investigate the behaviour of Commissioner van Wyk," Helm stated.

Helm also called on the Independent Complaints Directorate to investigate the behaviour of Commissioner Van Wyk. She further demands a public apology from Commissioner Van Wyk for his, as she put it, offensive behaviour.

On a positive note, Helm praised the conduct of the Makhado Municipality's traffic officers.

"The conduct of the traffic officers was sympathetic, patient, supportive and professional. The protest group was well disciplined and controlled under their guidance," Helm said.

Apart from the conduct of a few SAPS members, Helm also commended those members of the SAPS who handled the matter professionally.

"We (the DA) would like to commend Commissioner Maepa from Thohoyandou for his restraint and supportive actions. He behaved in a well-disciplined and professional way. It is clear that he understood the anger and rage of this community and knew how to channel the emotions while still maintaining control," Helm said.