Cape Town - Two violent protests rocked Cape Town on Monday, causing traffic jams and resulting in 21 arrests.
Protesters were burning tyres and throwing stones in Klipheuwel Road near Philadelphia, while the busy Bunga Avenue near Langa was closed for traffic.
Western Cape Traffic Chief Kenny Africa said about 100 people took to the streets, and cops were forced to close both on and offramps from the N2 onto Bunga Avenue.
Protesters were dispersed just before afternoon peak hour.
Meanwhile, violent protesters clashed with police at Klipheuwel Road informal settlement.
Residents blocked the road and demanded water and electricity.
Constable Noloyiso Rwexana said protesters burnt tyres in the street, looted shops and pelted cops with stones.
“Police fired rubber bullets to disperse the crowd, no injuries have been reported at this stage,” she said on Monday night.
“About 21 suspects including nine minors have been arrested on charges of public violence.”
A Mvalo security vehicle was also damaged by the mob.
A cop at the scene said the security company works for the nearby power station, the same place where protesters burnt down and cut some power cables earlier this week.
Klipheuwel community leader Maboti Ntsoane said they had an agreement with the City of Cape Town that electricity will be supplied with the permission of Philadelphia farm owner, Ghys White.
This was agreed to on 19 February this year.
However, according to sub City Council chair Wilfred Solomons, White has yet to sign the papers for the City to go ahead.
He is also charging the municipality a “high price” for the use of his land.
Solomons added: “He is currently speaking to his lawyers”.
Speaking to community leaders, Solomons said the council has to be cautious when acquiring this land, so as not to illegally spend tax payers’ money.
He said the City of Cape Town and Eskom are negotiating to see how they can supply electricity in the meantime.
He urged locals to be patient and to protest responsibly.
Daily Voice