ERMELO — The continued closure of the local licensing offices has left residents, motorists, and businesses frustrated, with no clear indication of when full services will resume.

Earlier this morning, Highvelder received a call from Moeti Mmusi, who said he could not yet respond to enquiries regarding the ongoing disruption at the licensing offices

He said that MEC for the Mpumalanga Department of Security, Community Safety and Liaison, Jackie Macie would be in town addressing the concerned stakeholders at the Bathopele Regional Offices, scheduled for 10:00.

Residents have reported a police presence at the building, though it remains unclear whether Macie has already spoken to the groups or still plans to.

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Highvelder also visited the Bathopele Regional offices, where a police bakkie was parked nearby and a few officers were present, but no large crowd had gathered.

Scores of people have been observed queuing outside the offices last week, while some were seen moving in and out of the building.

Conflicting reports indicate that certain sections may be operational while others remain closed, creating confusion for the public.

Sources suggest that the closure may be linked to dissatisfaction over traffic officer learnerships, allegedly allocated to the Ehlanzeni and Bushbuckridge districts during the holiday period without broader consultation or adherence to due protocol.

This reportedly prompted protest action at the Bathopele Regional Offices, though these claims remain unverified.

At this stage, no official explanation or reopening date has been provided.

Public concern appears less about the internal departmental dispute and more about when they can access full services to get essential work done.