Wolmaransstad, Free State - A service delivery protest in Wolmaransstad, North West, had abated by Wednesday afternoon, North West police said.
“This morning, there was a lawful march and it went well and there were no arrests (made),” said Captain Adele Myburgh.
A memorandum of demands was handed over to municipal officials, she said.
Maquassi Hills municipal spokesman Gontse Maruping said the municipality would respond to these within seven days.
Residents of Wolmaransstad extension 15 complained about, among other things, a lack of sanitation and water.
They moved into the area, which is a new establishment, early last year. The municipality was in the process of developing the area, Maruping said.
“We were in the process of connecting sewer networks when they rushed and moved there by force. Even the houses: we were still making applications with the human settlement department for houses to be built,” he said.
“And for water supply, the cable that makes sure the reservoir is pumped with water was stolen.”
The cable was stolen in December, resulting in only partial supply.
“In the mornings there is water because we operate the reservoir manually and during the day there is no water,” Maruping said.
On Tuesday, Myburgh said another group was complaining about the building of a road between Schweizer-Reneke and Wolmaransstad.
“Community members are allegedly dissatisfied with the contractor... because no local persons were employed for this project.”
The group gathered on the N12, but later dispersed. One person was arrested for public violence. It was not clear when he would appear in court.
Myburgh said the police continued to monitor the situation. - Sapa