Standerton - The situation is still tense in Standerton's Sakhile Township after renewed service delivery protests broke out yesterday.
According to police spokesperson Leonard Hlati, protestors had started blocking the R23 road highway between Johannesburg and Standerton.
Hlati told BuaNews that all the roads in the township were also blocked with burning tyres and debris.
He said they had to call for backup from police from other regions as some angry residents got out of control.
"As a result more police officers had been dispatched to the township to help restore order.
"We are calling for calm. The residents should stop what they are doing because they will face the full might of the law."
Residents are demanding that all councillors resign, following a report by the provincial government that uncovered corruption and maladministration.
On Monday, protestors petrol bombed a community centre housing a library and a community hall, along with a municipal administration block. At the weekend, they also burned a local councilor's house.
According to Hlati, yesterday they had also gone on the rampage at construction sites, looting cement.
Meanwhile, some of the 70 people, who were arrested for public violence for Monday's incidents, were released on R200 bail each yesterday.
"Those legally considered to be minors were released into the custody of their parents during the court appearance that went on until the evening," said Hlathi.
He said they were ordered to be back in court on 22 October.
A special task team from the Department of Cooperative Governance is in the township to assess the situation and to address residents' concerns.
