A heavy police contingent has been deployed to monitor the volatile situation in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. This is after groups of people believed to be taxi operators burnt tyres at various entry points to the city, causing traffic disruptions.
It is alleged that the protest was sparked by the suspension of taxi operations and the closure of public transport facilities, including taxi ranks by Police Minister, Bheki Cele last month.
Police spokesperson, Khaya Tonjeni has warned motorists to use alternative routes.
“We will commit ourselves as police in ensuring that people are safe and also that the property including the state property is protected. We are monitoring the situation at a close range and we are very fortunate that there are no casualties. We are hoping that by the end of this day we will restore peace and normality in the town of Mthatha.”
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