Friday was yet another day of violent protests in Bekkersdal (the protests have been going on for a couple of weeks already). The day started of calm but erupted after 12 the afternoon. The reason was that some politicians decided to march into Bekkersdal under guard of about 200 Police officers. When they got to the taxi rank in the middle of Bekkersdal the politicians got in a police car and drove out. This didn't go down well with the residents and they went on the rampage again, angry that no one addressed them.
Our problem with this was, we were about 5 km into Bekkersdal at that stage so we had to walk all the way out with the cops and YES it was a hot day and the camera gear does weigh a bit.
Naturally the protesters followed and threw some rocks whilst the cops returned the favor with some rubber bullets. They kept their distance but shouted taunts and took their chances every time we rounded a corner where we were obscured from view. This was when we watched our backs as rocks came flying over the roofs every time. We made it out and went back in yet again later the afternoon when the Premier decided to go in and address the protesters.
Lets just say they were not having any of it, three quarters of the 2000 strong crowd turned their backs and left 10 minutes into the speech.
Well this was just another day on the job with some excitement after a quite couple of news weeks in the office.
Enjoy the pics, will try and post some more of my own experiences on stories in future.
Police firing tear gas canister at protesting residents.
Residents setting fire to rubbish pilled up in the streets. This was while Nomvula Mokhonyane, the premier of Gauteng was addressing them. The crowd wanted none of what she had to say.
Police fire rubber bullets to disperse the crowd. These three old people fell over and battled to make their get away.
Teenagers standing on a roof observing the protest.
Police clearing roads.
Police going from house to house doing random searches.
A man in a wheelchair makes a hasty getaway as the protesters approach.
Short recap of events.
Police maintained a strong visible presence in Bekkersdal, outside Westonaria, on Friday following violent service delivery protests that have been going on for quite a while in the area.
On Friday, the Greater Westonaria Concerned Residents Association held a public meeting. Association secretary Father Ratsoeu said a complaint had been sent to Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane's office.
"We have also sent memorandums, petitions and indictment papers to all three spheres of government to respond to sewerage blockage problems and electricity issues in the informal settlement.
"We have requested the municipality to install solar geysers and lighting in the area," Ratsoeu said.
Bekkersdal residents have been on the rampage demanding that the Westonaria municipality be placed under administration.
