WATCH: Another alleged drug hotspot targeted as breakaway protesters move through Primrose
A breakaway group of protesters stopped outside the Martin Groove building in Primrose, alleging it is linked to drug-related activity while police prevented demonstrators from entering the property.
A breakaway group of protesters taking part in the ongoing demonstration in Primrose targeted the Martin Groove building at the corner of Everlasting and Rietfontein streets, alleging that it is one of several properties linked to drug-related activity.
The group gathered outside the Primrose building, calling on police to investigate their allegations and take action against any criminal activity they believe may be taking place at the property.
This follows earlier reports of another building on President Street in the Germiston CBD, where members of the community gathered outside a property they alleged was occupied by undocumented foreign nationals.
Protesters also claimed drugs were being sold from that building and that other illegal activities were taking place there.
Also read: Protest marches disrupt Germiston economy as shops close and police monitor key hotspots
After entering the building, organisers later informed the crowd that no foreign nationals were found inside.
Police and march leaders returned from the search to find sporadic incidents of violence outside the property.
One person was reportedly assaulted by individuals who had earlier refused police entry to the building following verbal disagreements while awaiting the outcome of the search.
Also read: WATCH: Protests spread across parts of Germiston as police monitor marches
In a separate incident in Delville, one person was arrested on the scene after he was allegedly found in possession of a cellphone belonging to a foreign national.
Watch: One person arrested on scene in Delville after being found with a cellphone allegedly belonging to a foreign national.
It is further alleged that he was among those who forcefully entered a property and compelled foreign nationals to leave.
Ekurhuleni District Commissioner, Major General Anna Sithole, is on the scene following reports of individuals taking the law into their own hands.
In Primrose, police prevented protesters from entering the Martin Groove building but allowed them to remain outside, where they chanted and voiced their concerns.
Watch: Protesters gathered in front of the Martin Groove building in Primrose
No evidence supporting the allegations had been presented at the scene. The incident formed part of a pattern in which smaller breakaway groups moved away from the main march to identify locations they claim are linked to crime.
Watch: “Go home,” protest leader tells crowds
Update: 16:31 Primrose
Primrose SAPS and security agencies remain on high alert following the dispersal of a growing crowd that gathered during protest action in the area.
The group, which increased in numbers throughout the day, was later dispersed by authorities. Although the situation is under control, tensions remain high among some community members.
Police and security personnel continue to maintain a strong presence, with monitoring operations set to continue overnight to ensure stability and prevent any flare-ups.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and allow law enforcement to manage the situation as efforts continue to maintain order.
Update: 16:40 Delvile
Two people were reportedly injured in Delville, Germiston, following the discharge of rubber bullets during efforts to disperse a crowd.
The situation is described as fluid, with reports of arrests linked both to individuals suspected of being undocumented migrants and others allegedly involved in forced entry into properties in an attempt to demand the removal of occupants.
Authorities continue to monitor developments in the area.
