Johannesburg – Police were adamant on Thursday morning to put an end to the "criminal element" taking part in protests across Ennerdale in the south of Joburg.
Burning tyres, tree branches and rubble littered the streets as police walked street after street in search of the group some deemed "hooligans".
Firing teargas and rubber bullets, police dispersed any small crowds that were attempting to gather.
Some residents watched from inside their gates as police, JMPD and nyalas passed through.
One resident who only identified herself as Lily said that it was enough.
#Ennerdale situation. Police entering the area @ReporterStar @IOL pic.twitter.com/pyaIio6lIN
— Ilanit Chernick (@LanC_02) May 11, 2017
#Ennerdale police moving in - adamant to arrest violent protesters @ReporterStar pic.twitter.com/mHZcdTuuaa
— Ilanit Chernick (@LanC_02) May 11, 2017
#Ennerdale police and JMPD are ready @ReporterStar pic.twitter.com/wtNCYtocDq
— Ilanit Chernick (@LanC_02) May 11, 2017
Police unable to clear a large piece of burning debris on the corner of James Street and R558 @ReporterStar pic.twitter.com/lnkBR69Kmn
— Ilanit Chernick (@LanC_02) May 11, 2017
Fire engine arriving on scene to put out the fire. @ReporterStar #Ennerdale pic.twitter.com/FuspzT7w86
— Ilanit Chernick (@LanC_02) May 11, 2017
"This protest needs to end. It's become too violent now – people and police keep attacking each other and it just won't end.
"A young boy who is asthmatic was hit with teargas in the face earlier, he's now in hospital," she said.
Other residents agreed, adding that many of those protesting were youth and criminals who don't represent the community.
Police and JMPD made several attempts to clear roads but were thwarted several times.
@Lanc_02