Residents in Ermelo have been left without access to essential licensing services after the local licensing office remained closed for two consecutive days.

The disruption began yesterday and continued today, with members of the public reporting being turned away upon arrival.

Unconfirmed accounts from people present at the facility suggest the closure may be linked to protest action attributed by some to NEHAWU, although this has not been independently verified and no official confirmation had been issued at the time of reporting.

Witnesses described gatherings and communication at the office involving administrative concerns, while others reported being directed to staff at the service counters for clarity on the situation.

It was further indicated that the office would remain closed pending engagement with management.

The shutdown has affected motorists, transport operators, and residents who rely on the facility for vehicle registrations and licence renewals, with uncertainty continuing over when services will resume.

The disruption follows previous intermittent closures at the Ermelo licensing office, contributing to growing public frustration over recurring service interruptions.

Read more about the ongoing uncertainty and service interruptions in the Highvelder’s printed edition.