Mob sets police car alight
2009-07-12 18:09
Johannesburg - A protest in Diepsloot on Sunday resulted in the stoning of vehicles, the destruction of a police car and five arrests, Gauteng police said.
"At about 10:00, the community of Diepsloot Extension One was addressed by their councillor," said Captain Bonginkosi Msimango.
The meeting concerned the removal of some of the shacks in the area.
"After the meeting the protesters started to riot. They stoned two Saps (SA Police Service) cars and then set one alight," said Msimango.
Protesters also began stoning passing cars on the R511, forcing Johannesburg metro police to close the road at 16:30.
Senior Superintendent Wayne Minnaar said that several passing cars had been damaged.
Police say the situation has since calmed.
Minnaar, however, recommends that motorists continue to avoid the R511 and use the N14 to Roodepoort as an alternative route.
"Motorists must avoid it [R511] as a precaution," said Minnaar.
Five people were arrested for public violence. Msimango said more arrests are expected. No injuries have been reported.
- SAPA