Randfontein Police have urged motorists to avoid the R28 between Randfontein and Westonaria due to violent protest action in the Mohlakeng area.
“The situation is extremely tense. At this stage one police officer has been injured,” said Captain Appel Ernst, Randfontein Police spokesperson.
According to Ernst, police were deployed in the area since about 4am on Wednesday morning (Wednesday, 30 May).
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She said approximately 1 000 protesters took to the streets and closed all exit routes towards main routes. Traffic police closed down the R28 between Randfontein and Westonaria since the road is barricaded with stones and concrete structures.
At about 9am, the Mohlakeng Satellite police station came under attack. Police and private vehicles as well as the police station were damaged extensively.
“Protesters were dispersed and in their retreat, they set vehicles at two construction sites alight. Machinery and three trucks are currently still burning. Police officers were forced to disperse the protesting crowd with rubber bullets and gas.
“It was earlier reported that the strike is possibly in sympathy related to the nurses strike. According to information just received it is however, due to service delivery.”
The Herald will keep the public updated.
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