Embattled ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema joined anti-tolling protesters as they marched to the Gauteng premier's office in Johannesburg on Wednesday.
With Malema's arrival the crowd, which stretched back six blocks, was injected with additional energy.
Marshals could not contain the protesters, spilling from Rissik Street on to De Korte, who rushed towards him chanting his nickname, “Juju, Juju”.
Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi was also given a hero's welcome. After meeting with the protesters, Malema left in a black Mercedes.
As the protest got underway earlier, shops on Rissik Street closed their doors. - Sapa