Sasolburg - Eighty-seven people have been arrested thus far during protests which started in Sasolburg yesterday. Free State police spokeserson, Peter Kareli said the protest began around 9.30am, when residents came out of a meeting about municipal demarcation. The residents are apparently unhappy about plans to merge Sasolburg into the Ngwathe Local Municipality, which Parys falls under. Kareli said the group divided into three, and the crowds began barricading streets, burning tyres and throwing stones at police cars. Police tried negotiating with the protesters, but to no avail. Windows were broken and shops looted. Kareli said police arrested 48 people in possession of goods looted from the shops. A further 39 were arrested for public violence. The arrested protesters will appear in court soon. He said some parts of Zamdela village were without electricity, and protesters were trying to loot from tuck shops there after dark. Police are keeping watch.

Sapa