Police on high alert as protests break out

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Pretoria - Commuters and motorists may have difficulty getting to work this morning following protest action in Mamelodi East, the City of Tshwane warned on Tuesday.

The City's Communication Services Executive Director, Console Tleane, said traffic flow could be affected as residents of Phomolong, who started protesting on Monday night, barricaded some roads.

"The protests, which took place from 8pm last night saw residents barricading Tsamaya road at the corner of Mabena Street, and Hans Strydom road at the corner of Hector Peterson Street," said Tleane.

In addition to barricading roads, protesting residents burnt tyres and other items, he said.

The Tshwane Metro Police and the South African Police Services, who were called to the scene, were pelted with stones.

"The Tshwane Fire Brigade Services personnel could not completely put out fires as they also came under attack. Some protesters fired live ammunition.

"It is anticipated that motorists and other commuters may find difficulty going to work especially in the affected areas," he said.

Apart from Mamelodi East, Hammanskraal and Hebroen also experienced protest action which was contained last night.

"Metro Police and SAPS stations in the affected areas are on high alert and will do everything in the power to bring the situation to normal," said Tleane.