Violent riots have broken out in the CBD following bail of R10 000 being granted to the alleged shooter of a municipal employee on August 17.

The PPP Protection and Security guard charged with killing the employee and wounding three others, has been released on R10 000 bail just before lunch.

Nqubeko Bright Mchunu (40), was granted bail, despite scores of striking municipal employees cordoning off the street in front of the courts, threatening to harm him and his vehicle.

He was arrested on August 18, the day after an altercation with striking municipal workers at the civic centre, resulting in shots allegedly being fired by Mr Mchunu, killing one of the strikers.

The late Tshepo Maseko was shot while advancing with three others on the armed security guards, seeking to gain entrance to the municipal buildings, where Acting Municipal Manager Ms Thokozile Zulu had been, before being escorted out in a sleeper car.

The incident happened after hours, after striking employees broke down the main entrance gate to the municipality, upon learning of Ms Zulu’s presence in the buildings.

Mr Maseko died on the scene, while the others were transported to the hospital for medical treatment.

Mr Mchunu is facing one count of murder and three counts of attempted murder.

Mr Mchunu was deployed by PPP Protection and Security Services after a council forum agreed to a R1.2 million financial deviation for additional security, to protect municipal officials, councillors and infrastructure.

Since PPP’s deployment a spate of thefts at the municipal magasyn had suddenly ceased.

In his affidavit, Mr Mchunu said the group was unruly, and that some protesters were drunk, causing him to open fire in self defence.

The matter was postponed for further investigation to October 12.

Residents should avoid the CBD where possible, with roads barricaded by bricks and other obstacles.

Rioters are also pelting vehicles with stones.