Mpuma protest turns violent
19 May 2010, 17:38
More than ten cars were stoned and three trucks set alight during a service delivery protest by Leandra residents on Wednesday, Mpumalanga police said.
Motorists travelling from Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal were advised to use alternative routes as the rowdy protesters were robbing drivers and passengers in passing vehicles, Captain Leonard Hlathi said.
"After breaking the cars' windows, they search occupants, the entire car and take their valuables."
He said residents had used stones and burning tyres to barricade most roads leading into the township, including the main R50 going to Secunda.
No arrests had been made yet, he said.
SABC news reported that the situation was "tense" as the police battled to restore calm in the area.
- Sapa
http://www.capeargus.co.za/?fSectionId=3571&fArticleId=nw20100519161313906C262163
