Pretoria – The Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and Human Settlements MEC in Gauteng, Paul Mashatile, has expressed concern over the violent protest in Hammanskraal.
Two people have reportedly been killed, while three buses were torched.
The Gauteng Human Settlements Department on Monday said the violence allegedly started after community members protested over the removal of shacks that were illegally erected near Jubilee Mall.
“I would like to call on all the community members involved in the violent protest to discontinue their actions and engage with relevant stakeholders to find a better solution in resolving their complaints,” said MEC Mashatile.
He urged Tshwane Municipality to exercise restraint when dealing with the situation and also find a way to resolve the situation with the protesting residents.
The MEC also called on the police to act swiftly in arresting those responsible for the violence.
“As government, we condemn any form of violence, especially if it leads to loss of lives and destruction of property,” said MEC Mashatile. - SAnews.gov.za
