Cairn Road still closed due to land dispute
The road has been closed since 03:00 today. Police and private security are awaiting the arrival of POP to disperse the crowd.
The Cairn Road is still closed following a protest regarding a land dispute by the New Cairn Community Trust this morning (August 30).
Trust members blocked off the Cairn Road from the N4 with rocks, burning tyres and other rubble at around 03:00 today. Police and private security companies arrived at the scene shortly after the protest began and are still monitoring the situation.
Community leader of the New Cairn Community Trust, Stephan Nyasenga, alleged that land belonging to the trust had recently been sold, with another portion on the market, without the community’s permission or knowledge.
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He said there were several other issues surrounding the portions of land, such as people buying local servitudes from the community, but failing to pay. Nyasenga said they want to engage with those who were selling off the community’s land and Rural Development to clarify what was happening with regards to ownership.
Police and private security were in negotiations with the community, trying to clear the road so children could get to school and the road could be used by vehicles.
This is a developing story. Police and security companies said they are awaiting the arrival of the Public Order Police (POP) to disperse the crowd and clear the road. Hi-Tech operational manager, Callum Mac Pherson, said they are monitoring the situation and would be present until the matter has been resolved.
