National Shutdown

SAPS and Law Enforcement “pushed” protesters back into Nyanga on Monday morning. Image: JP Smith/City of Cape Town

National Shutdown: Cape Town cops prevent protests from gaining momentum, one arrest made

A group of approximately 100 protesters were dispersed in Woodstock early on Monday. One person was arrested for alleged fuel station intimidation in Table View.

National Shutdown

SAPS and Law Enforcement “pushed” protesters back into Nyanga on Monday morning. Image: JP Smith/City of Cape Town

The City of Cape Town said a crowd of approximately 100 protesters were dispersed in the early hours of Monday, 20 March. The first arrest on the day of the National Shutdown in the City took place in Table View.

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Police and Law Enforcement in Cape Town Preventing Protests from Gaining Momentum During National Shutdown

MayCo Member for Safety and Security JP Smith indicated that the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Law Enforcement in the City are preventing scattered protests from gathering momentum.

“Small group of protesters began gathering on Borchards Quarry Rd. SAPS and Metro Police held the line and pushed the protesters back into Nyanga.

“As well as +-100 protesters began gathering on Main Rd Woodstock, tried moving towards Mowbray. SAPS fired gas cannister [sic] and the protesters dispersed,” he said. These incidents took place at approximately 3:00,” said Smith.

Image: JP Smith/City of Cape Town

Arrest Made for Fuel Station Intimidation in Table View

Before midnight, a small group of protestors allegedly attempted to intimidate fuel stations in Parklands, Table View.

SAPS and private security responded, and one reported Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) supporter was arrested. Nine other people retreated to a security complex.

Smith said the EFF supporters were hiding, and private security was monitoring the residence.

Image: JP Smith/City of Cape Town

“Yesterday saw two failed attempts with petrol bombs thrown at MyCiti busses. The flames were extinguished, with only smoke damage. SAPS forensics attended to gather evidence.

“Several attempts at burning rubbish across roadways in Khayelitsha, also Hindle and Symphony Roads. Upon arrival by our services, debris was extinguished and removed, no sign of protesters,” said Smith.

As of 5:45, all areas in the City were quiet, and traffic flowed freely.

Image: JP Smith/City of Cape Town

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