Local News
Theunissen protest action continuing - three buildings torched─── 16:23 Fri, 07 Feb 2014
Duane Petrus
Bloemfontein - Striking residents in Theunissen set three municipal buildings alight last night during a protest that has been ongoing for two weeks. The residents are complaining that the Beatrix gold mine in the town does not employ enough locals.
Free State police spokesperson, Ian Gaobepe, says the arson attack took place after a meeting was held between the protesters and the Masilonyane Local Municipality’s manager.
The violent behaviour started during this meeting. One building in the town was torched while a community hall and a municipal building in the Masilo township were severely burnt.
No arrests have been made yet. Gaobepe says the situation is currently under control, but remains volatile.
