The North West capital, Mahikeng which has been experienced widespread community protests, calling for the resignation of Premier Supra Mahumapelo, appears to be on lock-down on Thursday morning.
Most entry points to the city are barricaded with rocks and debris and several roads remain closed. Tension is high, as several people who staged riots into the night, have been seen regrouping.
Protests that first erupted in Montshioa township, spiralled to several main roads, to the town of Mahikeng, including the CBD, nearby Danville surburb, Setlopo village and surrounding areas.
Riots lasted till the early hours of the morning at Unit 9 in Mmabatho, where residents wanted to march at Premier’s house in unit 14.
There were reports that they wanted to torch the house. Since Wednesday schooling was disrupted in most areas.
There is a message circulating on social media warning people to stay away. Several people were arrested Wednesday night, with police still to confirm the exact number.
On the roads, several people are seen re-grouping, in what police said are suspecting to be another day of riots.
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BREAKING:
Residents is Mafikeng in the NW have burnt a bus & taxi, barricading roads with debris & rocks, with hundreds of learners skipping school demanding resignation of NW Premier #SupraMahumapelo #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/G7I8bOa0Lj— MANLU (@LucasMothibedi) April 18, 2018
#SupraMahumapelo MEC Magome Masike remains in talks with the SA Military Health Services about possible deployment to facilities affected by Nehawu protests in Mahikeng. SANDF cannot comment at this time. #SupraMustFall
— Mahikeng Thought Leader (@JpNdaba) April 18, 2018
The people protesting are from Mahikeng and not even a protest in Rustenburg and again this are the Thuma Mina brigade, not the whole of ANC.
— Motho Ke Motho Ka Batho (@Just__Clinton45) April 19, 2018