Gangs in Joburg: Are the cops winning?
Westbury resident takes over a Morning Live crossing | Image: Twitter
Earlier today, Westbury protesters found other means of making their voices heard when one resident took over an SABC broadcast during a Morning Live crossing and shocked viewers with his choice of words.
It was earlier reported that the protester used the k-word, but this has since been amended, after it appears what he says sounds very similar, but is actually saying “rol daai k*k oor.”
Speaking to LeAnne Mannas from the scene, a journalist named Lopang Alamu attempted to interview one of the residents standing nearby while a number of other residents surrounded her. The man proceeded to grab Alamu’s mic and spew profanities into the camera before the feed was cut abruptly.
WARNING: The following video contains strong language.
What a way to start a Monday morning ???????????? pic.twitter.com/0oYVS25Nsh
— Brosky (@mbangalyzaa) October 1, 2018
Viewers took to social media shortly thereafter to express their concern over the safety of journalists who report live from scenes of conflict.
SABC should assign body guards for journalists. The last time their journalists were robbed live on tv.
— Mihlali Joja???????? (@Mihlalij1978) October 1, 2018
How irresponsible of @MorningLiveSABC to not protect journalist going into Hotspot areas.
— Jabulani (@jabuchenpereira) October 1, 2018
Is the reporter safe?
— Bongani Mkhungo (@Bongani_Mkhungo) October 1, 2018
Absolutely sickening,delusional & totally unacceptable behavior. The safety of our journalists is really not guaranteed in these circumstances
— D.M.H (@Hadebelm) October 1, 2018
sabc needs to send security together with sabc crews especially in volatile areas.
— Mzila King (@senzelwe_mzila) October 1, 2018
Alamu later addressed the situation on social media.
This guy did me dirty during my crossing though ???? https://t.co/xj6P96dTyT
— Lopang Alamu (@LopangAlamu) October 1, 2018
She has since confirmed that she made her way back to the studio unharmed.
I’m safe thank you Bongani
— Lopang Alamu (@LopangAlamu) October 1, 2018
Nope. He didn’t swear. He immediately changed when he got a hold of the mic and pushed me down. All is well though, we are okay.
— Lopang Alamu (@LopangAlamu) October 1, 2018
She confirmed that she and her crew were threatened and said she did what she thought was best given the situation.
Yep. They threatened us, it becomes very easy for them to attack you if they aren’t awarded the chance to ‘speak on behalf of the community’. It’s tough there by live broadcasting, you just hope and pray such incidents don’t occur
— Lopang Alamu (@LopangAlamu) October 1, 2018
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