WATCH: Protesters set fire to Empangeni farm

BOTH carriageways on the N2, between the Engen Garage and the University of Zululand off-ramp, were completely blocked by protesters from yesterday (Thursday) evening until late this morning, forcing motorists to use the alternative R102 route, although this was also temporarily blocked.

The protesters set alight a farm plantation and barricaded the highway with branches, which were set alight.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Speedy city engineers restore water feed

The action was reportedly in response to the death of 51-year-old Joseph Mthembu, as a result of injuries suffered during a physical altercation with a private security guard on Jock’s Farm yesterday.

The guard had allegedly attempted to prevent Mthembu from trespassing on the private property.

A case of murder was opened at eSikhaleni Police Station and is under investigation, but no arrests have been reported.

‘We were informed by the security guard that Mthembu was found wandering on Jock’s Farm on Thursday,’ explained SAPS King Cetshwayo cluster Communications Officer Captain Mbongeni Mdlalose.

‘When the security guard approached him and asked him to leave, a physical altercation ensued.

‘As a result, Mthembu suffered multiple head wounds and was rushed in a private vehicle to a nearby hospital, but died en route.’

Mdlalose said the community gathered later in the day, taking the law into their own hands by blockading the N2 and setting the farm alight.

eSikhaleni police officers, SAPS Public Order Policing unit and the fire department rushed to the scene this morning.

Through unified efforts, they managed to extinguish the fires, remove the debris and reopen the N2, allowing the traffic flow to resume.

See the full story in the ZO on Monday.

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 060 784 2695

Instagram – zululand_observer