One of the angry local residents tells OFM News that all seven schools and two health facilities in the area have been closed for two days now for fear of the safety of pupils and workers.

He says the town has descended into chaos with almost everyone in the area boycotting or either fearing to report for duty at their respective workplaces.

OFM News previously reported that on Wednesday night three houses belonging to the local police officers were torched and set alight while a police officer suffered facial injuries after being hit with a stone following a squabble with the residents. This as residents are hell-bent on their main demand that five suspects, who were allegedly arrested for assault, be set free.

Primary schools that have been affected, include Thamagane, Matlhajaneng, Tshenolo, Vaaloewer Combined, and Boitumelong, while the two secondary schools include Thuto-lore and Gaopalelwe. The two clinics include Boitumelong and Coverdale. One of the pupils in that area says they have been staying away from the school since the protests by local taxi drivers spearheaded. The pupils say the drivers in question blocked educators from entering respective schools and further told them that they will not be able to teach while they are protesting.

Police spokesperson, Sam Tselanyane, confirmed that schools have been affected by the protests in that area. Tselanyane said on Wednesday protesters allegedly pelted the police station with stones but were eventually dispersed. Both the Department of Health and Education are expected to comment on questions sent to them.

OFM News