Cape Town - The situation in Zwelihle in Hermanus remains tense after protesters demanded the release of their leaders while burning tyres and barricading roads. Police fired tear gas to disperse crowds that stoned them. The violent protests continued from last week when people went on the rampage, damaging property and infrastructure.
Ward councillor Lindile Ntsabo said the protest is no longer about “the land issue”; the protesters are now demanding the release of Gcobani Ndzongana and the other 19 fellow community members who were arrested during an initial protest.
“The land issue was settled on the 27th of March by the Department of Human Settlement, and everyone seemed to be happy,” said Ntsabo.
“On Friday, Premier Helen Zille attempted to address the angry residents of Zwelihle about the escalating violence in the area. The residents did not allow her to say a word and instead of engaging her on their grievances threw stones she was forced to abandon her attempts and left.”
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