The spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Phaladi Shuping, previously told OFM News the matter pertaining to this latest bail application was delayed due to the accused’s previous convictions. Most recently the state’s case against 4 of the 47 Harrismith protesters was struck off the roll due to the accused being detained for longer than the legal 48 hour period. Meanwhile, the 42 other demonstrators who have been released out on a warning in the matter will reappear before the local courthouse on 20 August 2021. This is to allow the state to conduct further investigations.

According to Shuping, the arrests emanate from violent service delivery-related protests in the embattled Maluti-A-Phofung Municipality. The residents also want the area to be removed from this municipality. Free State police upped the number of boots on the ground in and around Harrismith, Tshiame, and the Makgolokweng Village. 

Provincial police spokesperson, Motantsi Makhele told OFM News previously that the situation in the area is quiet on both national routes, including the N5 and N3.

OFM News reported that the ANC Free State Interim Provincial Committee (IPC) says it has met with protesting residents of Harrismith, who are being plagued by the collapse of service delivery.

OFM News/Lucky Nkuyane and Olebogeng Motse