PICS: iSithebe burns for a third day

Protesters continued to torch property, including a factory and a truck, on the third day of protests in iSithebe.

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By Andrew Robertson

Durban - Protesters embarked on a third day of violent protests in iSithebe in the Mandeni District Municipality in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

A large group of protesters on Tuesday continued to torch property as they took to the streets demanding to be heard. At least one truck was set alight and a factory.

At a recycling depot a fire broke out. Sources say a petrol bomb was thrown over the fence. However the local fire department was unable to extinguish the engulfing flames because it’s water tankers ran dry in the drought stricken community.

On Monday four factories were set alight this included: one completely burnt, one severely burnt and two that were put out on time. Six trailers were also torched.

A total of 120 suspects were arrested and are due to appear at Inyoni Magistrate Court soon.

KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Mike Mabuyakhulu who visited a burnt down furniture factory said the community has “certain issues”.

“The issues are regarding an induna (traditional leader) that we were told was suspended by a traditional council. The second matter is about the nomination processes.”

Despondent residents on Monday vented their frustration over the re-nomination of the ex-mayor for the upcoming elections.

Upon arrival in iSithebe on Tuesday, IOL reporters were chased away by a group of protesters who were throwing stones at vehicles passing.

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