Angry ratepayers escalated protests last night when the municipality announced that it would not continue with consultations about increased tariffs. Residents living in Extension 7 and 23 could not drive out of the area this morning due to the protests. When www.mobserver.co.za visited the area this morning, it found police officers near Nelson Mandela Drive, major roads were barricaded and taxis and private vehicles could not enter the township.

The unrest started on Monday when municipal officials failed to reach a consensus with residents who attended a community meeting at the Eric Jiyane Hall. The meeting was in response to the town’s outrage over tariff increases.

Several community meetings were also scheduled for this week, however, the municipality has postponed them due to the unrest.