Police have restored calm in Cosmo City following rioting this morning. According to the provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Kay Makhubela, police used tear gas to disperse the protesting crowd. Lt Makhubela said the protest was sparked after a sheriff tried to evict one family from a house. “Community members mobilised to stop this eviction and they started throwing stones at the police,” said Lt Makhubela.
Vital-Med spokesperson Tania du Toit said their paramedics treated a JMPD officer who was injured by a rock that was thrown by rioting crowds.
It is understood that an emergency vehicle was also stoned.
Several roads in the area were closed as it is reported that the protesters threw stones at motorists.
Ward 100 councillor Noni Raphata alleged that violent protesters were earlier at her house and wanted to burn it down. “Luckily, the police were here and they prevented that from happening. Rocks and tyres are still outside my house to show that these people were up to no good,” added Raphata.
According to the councillor, residents were angered by the demolition of – mostly backrooms – they had added to their homes without the City’s approval. “Some of the residents had built on top of water pipes and others illegally extended their homes onto the municipal land,” explained Raphata. The councillor said she was shocked that community members never engaged with her on the matter and only approached her violently when things are at the peak like today.
On Facebook, the Douglasdale CPF posted the message: “Following a demolition of illegal shacks in Cosmo City and a riot has broken out. Looting and theft are also taking place. Various police officers from the Honeydew Cluster and Public Order Police have been deployed to restore order and monitor the situation. Douglasdale CPF recommend that you stay clear of the area if possible. We will keep you updated on the situation.”
