At approximately 6 pm on the evening of Thursday, 10 May, 300 Mohlakeng-based protesters took to the streets, dispersing at approximately 8.30pm. However, they are rioting once again.
Yesterday, they barricaded Ralerata and Nqonyela Streets, but the Randfontein Police intervened.
Leaders of the group have indicated that they are dissatisfied with the Rand West City Local Executive Mayor, councillor Mzi Khumalo,who employed 80 people from the neighbouring Bekkersdal to work in the Mohlakeng area.
Randfontein Police station commander, Brigadier Jacob Manamela, has in the meantime arranged a meeting for Monday, 14 May in order to address the issue with the Executive Mayor.
Also Read: Mohlakeng threatens to riot
Three men were arrested and a case of public violence is under investigation. Public Order Policing members monitored the situation throughout the night.
“However, at 7am this morning, 11 May, the protestors regrouped and Ralerata, Ntuli, Nqonyela and Segaetso Streets were barricaded with stones, concrete structures and burning tyres. Randfontein Police officers, with the assistance of the local Traffic Authority, are deployed in the area,” said Captain Appel Ernst, spokesperson for the Randfontein Police.
Shops were closed after attempts were made to loot them. The situation is tense and the Randfontein station commander has advised Mohlakeng residents to avoid the streets listed, to prevent damage to their vehicles.
Social groups and the Community Policing Forum (CPF) are also warning residents to avoid the R28 near Bekkersdal. The group has also moved on the Rand West City Local Municipality, where it has been reported that tyres are being burned, rocks are being packed in the road and stones are being thrown at the municipal buildings.
It is also reported that the Rand West Traffic Department is closed.
The Herald will keep residents up to date and is awaiting comment from the municipality.
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