UPDATE: Travel alert for Fourways residents on Saturday for the burial of struggle stalwart, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela

The SA Police Service (Saps) has issued a statement to warn Fourways residents, particularly people in close proximity to the Fourways Memorial Park in Craigavon, that during the Special Official Category 1 Funeral for Winnie Madikizela-Mandela on 14 April, there would be a 19 Gun Salute.

“This means that extremely loud bangs will be heard in that vicinity that may have an effect on people. Special care should be given to people suffering ill-health, the elderly and little children,” read the statement.

“Owners of pets are also advised that these loud bangs are likely to severely agitate animals and therefore special provisions should be made for them for the duration of the funeral ceremony.

“We are expecting inclement weather on the day of these events and we therefore, want to urge both motorists and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution when traveling to, from and at the events.”

The Fourways Review is in the process of verifying the road closures in the Fourways area, however, the police statement did explain that all the intersections that were affected around the Orlando Stadium for the memorial service earlier today as well as for the funeral service on Saturday were and would be manned by the multi-disciplinary law enforcement agencies. The statement went on to state that residents who had no alternate access routes to their homes or places of business were advised to obtain access permits at Orlando Police Station. The Fourways Review is in the process of verifying whether this is relevant to the Fourways area too and updates will follow shortly.

“We are confident that all attendees irrespective of race, colour, creed and/or political affiliation will come together harmoniously to honour the late Mrs Madikizela-Mandela,” read the police statement.

Earlier

Struggle stalwart Winnie Madikizela-Mandela will be buried at Fourways Memorial Park in Craigavon on Saturday, 14 April and residents are warned of road closures in the area.

Madikizela-Mandela died last Monday, 2 April at the age of 81.

Marking the last day of the 12 days of mourning for the struggle stalwart, the Fourways area will be occupied by the South African Army, various VIP protection and police on the day of the funeral.

Residents are warned to plan their trips accordingly and avoid main intersections within the Fourways area.

This is a developing story and Fourways Review will keep you updated on unfolding developments.

What would you write on struggle stalwart Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s tribute wall? Share your views on the Fourways Review Facebook page.