WHITE RIVER – After a violent strike started in the early hours of Monday, 23 protesters were arrested on charges of public violence after plantations worth millions of rand were destroyed. They were protesting the ongoing water situation and expressed their discontent by setting the veld alight and blockading the road with rocks, street signs and burning branches. This made it impossible for motorists to use the road between White River and Plaston.
According to the mayor of Mbombela, Mr Sibusiso Mathonsi, they are currently busy with a project to provide these residents with water from Karino. “When we went to speak to them, they immediately stopped their violent behaviour,” he said.
Mr Joseph Ngala, spokesman for the municipality, said they would not support any form of anarchy and would allow the law to take its course with those who acted criminally. “We would like to appeal to communities to work with the municipality in its quest to better serve them. It does not dispute the fact that there is insufficient water supply and its plans are communicated to the citizens through community engagements and the media,” he said. Ngala also confirmed that a water-supply project was underway and they would address any challenges faced by the communities at the moment.
According to Brig Selvy Mohlala, the case has been postponed to October 27 and all 23 protesters were released on a warning.
