Police escort illegal protesters

eMBALENHLE – Local youths called on Sasol to give them priority when it comes to employment.

They said it does not make sense that they are trapped in poverty while they are living a few metres away from one of the country’s biggest companies.

The unemployed and concerned residents voiced their concerns during an illegal protest against Sasol.

The youths assembled at eMbalenhle and walked to the Sasol Charlie 3 gate while being escorted by the police.

They said they are tired of applying for the same positions all the time and wanted Sasol’s attention.

The protesters wanted to hand over a memorandum to Sasol Management, but Sasol’s head of security received it because the protest was illegal.

“We are again despised by Sasol who is not taking us serious.

“We demand jobs.

“We demand that service providers provide employment to locals.

“Locals must also be considered to be given business inside Sasol.

“If you do not respond to our demands in seven days, we will take action,” said a coordinator of the protest.

The protesting crowd was escorted to eMbalenhle by police.

Capt Magonseni Nkosi, police spokesman, said a case of illegal gathering was opened against the protest conveners and the docket was taken to court.

He said it will depend of the merits of the case and the finding of the prosecutor on whether any arrests will be made.

“The police were not there to accompany the protesters, but to protect the residents and to ensure that the protest did not affect road users.”