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Police continue to monitor Hermanus protest

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Leaders of the violent land and housing protest in Hermanus, Overstrand, say they are not sure if they will be able to calm down angry residents at Zwelihle Township.

Backyarders in the area say they want land to start erecting shacks immediately.

Community members on Tuesday met Western Cape Provincial Housing Minister Bonginkosi Madikizela to discuss their concerns.

The aftermath of a violent protest which started at the weekend, includes the torching of a police station and the looting and vandalising of several shops, forced owners to flee.

Over 20 people have been arrested for public violence.

Community leaders demanded a meeting with government officials to set the record straight.

Following the chaos, one provincial official allegedly called those who participated in the protest mad and out of control and the community leaders took offence.

Community leader Gcobani Nzongana says: “The leader is calling us mad. When you tell us that our people are mad it’s wrong. The people of Zwelihle have been struggling for many years. We have memorandum on the issue of land, it did not start yesterday.”

Madikizela addressed community members at the local sports field, saying land has been identified for development but this too will take time.

Human Settlements MEC Madikizela says:”The municipality has identified two pieces of land, and you will forgive me because I will not mention where those pieces of land are because of certain issues, that will be announced in due cause, but land has been identified by the municipality.”

Madikizela has suggested a committee be set up going forward. Police continue to monitor the area.

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