Widespread road closures and disruptions have been reported across the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District following ongoing protest action linked to a minibus taxi strike.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that several major routes have been affected, with the N12 at Alabama Circle completely closed due to protest activity. Motorists are urged to avoid the area, as well as all entrances to Orkney, until the situation stabilises.

North West police spokesperson Captain Majang Skalkie says that law enforcement officers, including Public Order Policing (POP) units, have been deployed to affected areas to manage the situation and ensure the safety of residents and road users.

“SAPS continues to engage with relevant stakeholders to address the situation in a peaceful and lawful manner,” Skalkie said.

According to information shared by the CSS Safe City group, multiple key routes remain closed. These include the R30 between Leeudoringstad and Orkney, the R30 at Bothaville Bridge, the R502 between Orkney and Vaal Reefs, as well as the N12 near Rio Casino and the Shell Ultra City.

Additional closures have been reported on the R30 at Arriston, the R502 between Khuma and Vermaasdrift, the 4 Shaft robot, Goueweg in the direction of Randlespark and the mines, and the R503 Hartebeesfontein road.

Motorists are advised to make use of alternative routes where possible. Roads currently reported open include the Westvaal road in Orkney, the N12 towards Potchefstroom, Goueweg in Dawkinsville, and the back road towards Stilfontein.

Authorities have called on the public to remain calm, avoid affected areas, and cooperate with law enforcement while operations continue.