A Samwu member appeared in the Welkom Magistrate’s Court on Thursday (1/2) on charges of theft, obstructing police from executing their duties, and assaulting a police member. 

Buyisile Lingani (42) was arrested on Tuesday (30/1) after he allegedly approached a police vehicle, took the key with the petrol card from the ignition, ran towards the hostile crowd, and pushed the SAPS members away.

Lingani was approached by the police and refused to hand over the key and petrol card. The key fell on the ground and was recovered.

Matjhabeng Local Municipality's workers emptied rubbish bins and scattered them on the main roads in Hennenman. Photo: Facebook

“We can confirm that the Samwu member appeared in the Welkom Magistrate’s Court yesterday and was released on warning for further investigation. He will appear again on Friday 1 March,” said Free State police spokesperson Stephen Thakeng.

“We are monitoring the situation of the striking municipal workers. Garbage is being thrown on the streets of Virginia, Ventersburg, Odendaalsrus, and Welkom.”

The municipality sent a stern warning to workers who will be participating in the strike action that the ‘no work no pay rule’ will be enforced.

The municipality said they will enforce the 'no work no pay' rule. Picture supplied 

The union decided to embark on a protected strike that was scheduled to start on Monday (29/1) after unsuccessful attempts to address critical worker-related issues with the management of the Matjhabeng Local Municipality.

OFM News reported the municipality approached the Supreme Court to have the Samwu strike declared illegal.

Mayoral spokesperson Tshediso Tlali said they decided to approach the court due to incidents where protesters violated rules of demonstrations, including intimidation of workers who are not part of the strike, physical confrontations with employees of the Department of Infrastructure, littering, and burning tyres. 

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg