Black riots in Protea, outside Randfontein

Violent service delivery protests erupted on Wednesday in the Protea area outside Randfontein, said police.

Warrant Officer Kay Makhubela described the scene as chaotic as hundreds of community members from the Waterworks informal settlement clashed with police.

“Police are firing rubber bullets at the protesters. We also have our nyalas and choppers on the scene but these protesters are attacking police,” said Makhubela.

Riot scene in South Africa
Riot scene in South Africa

He said the demonstrators were throwing stones and rocks at police and motorists making their way past.

“The N12 road from Potchefstroom and Randfontein and Impala Road has been closed. We advise motorists to use alternative routes,” said Makhubela.

The protests began at around 2am. No arrests had been made.

Makhubela said no injuries had been reported thus far.

Earlier, the metro police department said the protests were in Zuurbekom.

Makhubela rectified the earlier reports. – Sapa

Protests errupt in Zuurbekom

zuurbekomProtests erupted in Zuurbekom, between Lenasia and Protea, in Johannesburg on Wednesday morning, said metro police.

Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar said protesters were burning tyres and had obstructed Impala road and the N12.

“This will affect traffic going to and from Westonaria and the Protea area,” said Minnaar.

He advised motorists to use alternative routes.

It was unclear what the protests were about. – Sapa