Protests disrupt N4 traffic

The N4 was closed and then covered in debris for a large portion of November 8 – the road is now open again.

This follows protest action along the route.

The provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, has called for calm following incidents of violent protests at Vosman near eMalahleni.

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“One person was shot and taken to hospital where she passed away on November 7. We are not yet certain who shot the 50-year-old woman, however, an immediate investigation is under way that will look into the allegations that the victim, as well as two others who reportedly sustained some injuries, were shot by a member or members of the SAPS,” a statement by the police read.

The police are on high alert since the violence erupted and became worse on November 7, and have heightened visibility to monitor the situation in the area following the protests that also affected services.

Preliminary reports indicate that the incident follows power blackouts that were experienced in the area for the past weeks.

All entrance and exit roads were reportedly barricaded with stones and burning tyres. Members from Public Order Police as well as other members of the police are working in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies to ensure that the situation is normalised.

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According to the statement, “On the evening of November 7, the situation was tense when protestors in KwaGuqa Extension reportedly turned violent with reports of looting and torching of the Pick n Pay Shopping Centre in Extension 5.

“The police remain in the area and motorists are urged to drive with caution along the N4 near KG Mall as well as in other roads nearby. A case of public violence has been opened. Two people have been arrested so far.”

TRACN4 confirmed the road was reopened, but also warned road users to travel with caution as the situation remains volatile.