A VEHICLE belonging to Bongani Pearce, Mpukunyoni Community Property Association Chairman (MCPA) and organiser of Monday’s march against the Mpukunyoni Traditional Council, was on Monday night set alight and his office stoned in what is believed to be a revenge attack.
The incident occurred at about midnight, when Pearce was awoken by noise outside his house.
‘When I looked outside, I saw the van burning,’ said Pearce.
‘I did not go outside as I was worried about my safety, but I alerted the police immediately’.
Pearce said the police arrived just before 1am and a case was opened.
‘I could not see how many people there were, I just saw shadows running away’.
Apart from the burnt out vehicle, Pearce’s office on the same property was stoned.
Reports of gunfire were unconfirmed.
While environmental and social groups supportive of the community’s plight living in an area affected by mining activities fear for Pearce’s safety and that of other MCPA members, the community remain united in their quest to live a life unaffected by mining.
