Johannesburg - Police Minister Fikile Mbalula on Monday condemned the violence in Finetown and Eldorado Park, south of Johannesburg, as disgruntled residents protested over land and other issues, the police ministry said.
“The Minister of Police, Mr Fikile Mbalula, while acknowledging the right of protesters to protest in communicating their grievances, condemns the violent protest took place today in Finetown and Eldorado Park, more especially violence directed to the journalists whose mandate is to report the very same protest and grievances,” the ministry said in a statement.
“The Minister urges all community members to be alert in and around Eldorado Park, and requests media representatives to wear reflective clothing and drive in marked vehicles. Minister Fikile Mbalula, re-iterates that South Africans have the right to lawfully protest but in exercising that right, they must not undermine the rights of others. Therefore, damage to public and private property will not be tolerated.”
Cartridges, rocks and ash from the protests in Eldorado Park protest. Picture: Ilanit Chernick
The ministry said that Mbalula was aware that the South African Police Service (SAPS) was in and around the area monitoring and containing the situation to protect citizens and prevent further damage to property.
According to reports the Golden Highway was blockaded on Monday with rocks and burning tyres. Shops in Eldorado Park were looted after residents took to the streets demanding land without compensation.