The group of protestors is up in arms against the municipality, accusing its councillors of manipulating the recruitment or hiring process for a road construction/refurbishment project in that area.

The mayor of the municipality, Dimakatso Modise, told OFM News that she is aware of the accusations levelled against councillors but maintains that the employment processes for the road projects are being handled through the Department of Labour and not through the municipality. Dimakatso said she has since asked those who have made accusations to engage with local councillors to find a suitable solution and agreement.

"Yesterday, the community issued a memorandum to the municipality in which they raised four issues. Today they said they were going to barricade the R30 due to unemployment. Remember, there is the refurbishment of the R30 and the employment is done through the labour department," Dimakatso added.

Meanwhile, according to the spokesperson, Stephen Thakeng, a 41-year-old man was arrested on Friday after the protestors barricaded the R30 road with burning tyres, stones and rubble.

"They were verbally warned to disperse but refused to disperse. Then a 41-year-old man was arrested for incitement to commit public violence, public violence, and destruction of infrastructure. The situation was brought under control and residents then dispersed. 

"Members of the Public Order Policing continue to monitor the situation," Thakeng added.

OFM News