THE man who died in the N2 service delivery protest near Murchison on Monday this week has been identified as Siyabonga Phiri. Phiri allegedly died after inhaling teargas during a clash with police.
This was revealed in a press statement released by Willies Mchunu, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, earlier today.
Kwanele Ncalane, Communication Liaison Officer from Department of Community Safety and Liaison, said MEC Mchunu pointed out that the blockade had the potential to cripple the provincial economy as the N2 is an essential link between KZN and other provinces, as well as with Lesotho.
MEC Mchunu, accompanied by local mayors, visited the Phiri family and assured them that the matter has now been forwarded to Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).
Last night, MEC Mchunu convened a meeting with Ugu District Municipality leadership and officials to devise a strategy for addressing the water crisis.
The road remains closed.
