Samsung Also Looted... South Africa Riots Death Toll Reaches 72

Following LG, Samsung Also Suffers Damage from Mob Looting

Former President Jacob Zuma (Photo by Reuters)

[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] Protests in the Republic of South Africa have escalated into large-scale looting incidents, with the death toll rising to 72.

On the 14th (local time), the British Guardian and others, citing police statistics, reported that 72 people have died so far due to the riots, and over 1,200 have been arrested on charges including rioting, arson, and looting.

The large-scale riot, which began on the 8th during protests against the detention of former President Jacob Zuma on corruption charges, is spreading from KwaZulu-Natal, Zuma's hometown, to the major city of Johannesburg.

The death toll has significantly increased due to stampede accidents and other incidents as mobs gathered to loot large shopping malls and supermarkets damaged by arson.

In particular, following the complete destruction by fire of LG Electronics' Durban factory due to the riots, Samsung Electronics' logistics warehouse in KwaZulu-Natal is also reported to have suffered looting damage.

As mobs gathered, most stores and banks temporarily suspended operations to avoid looting damage, and in some areas, citizens trembling with fear have engaged in 'panic buying.'

Photo by AP Yonhap

As the situation escalated, the South African government deployed 2,500 military personnel to suppress the unrest, but it remains insufficient. The police are also strengthening surveillance of social media that incites the riots.

The South African National Defence Force stated in a statement released the previous day, "We have initiated procedures to deploy troops to Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal to assist law enforcement agencies (such as the police) and suppress the riots."

President Cyril Ramaphosa said in a national address that violent protesters will be severely punished, stating, "What we are witnessing now is criminal behavior. There are forces inciting chaos by engaging in looting disguised as protests."

The riots are also adversely affecting South Africa's regional COVID-19 response. Experts warn that if the current unstable situation continues, the virus could spread further through the protesters.

President Ramaphosa stated, "The riots have disrupted plans at a time when vaccination efforts were gaining momentum."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.