Violent protests erupted in the Durban CBD on Thursday, with protesters torching at least 10 cars and setting a building alight in an apparent revenge attack. The unrest began after a demonstrator was allegedly assaulted by foreign nationals, sparking anger among residents and businesses in the area. The protests spread to the North and South Beach and Point areas, with protesters storming shops and setting vehicles alight.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Col Robert Netshiunda said three foreigners were arrested in connection with the alleged assault of a demonstrator. He stated that the police were stretched due to multiple demonstrations taking place simultaneously, including a March and March protest outside a home affairs refugee office against asylum seekers and a gender-based-violence awareness protest.
According to Netshiunda, the protesters who were assaulted had been marching and were on their way to join another protest when one of them was allegedly assaulted by foreign nationals. The assault sparked widespread anger, leading to the violent protests and retaliatory attacks. The police had to fire rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse the violent crowd members, who hurled debris and stones at them.
The protests caused widespread disruption, with residents and businesses in the CBD and surrounding areas taking cover. The police were deployed to quell the violence and looting, but not before multiple cars and a building had been set alight. Netshiunda stated that the police were still trying to determine who was responsible for the violence and that reinforcements would be brought in if necessary.
The incident highlights the tensions between local residents and foreign nationals in the area. The March and March protest outside the home affairs refugee office against asylum seekers had been taking place, and the alleged assault on a demonstrator appears to have escalated the situation. The police are investigating the incident and are working to restore order in the area.
The protests and violence have raised concerns about public safety and the need for effective policing in the area. The KwaZulu-Natal police are working to address the situation and prevent further incidents. The incident has also sparked debate about the need for greater community engagement and dialogue to address the underlying tensions.
The situation in Durban's CBD remains volatile, with residents and businesses on high alert. The police are working to maintain order and prevent further incidents, and an investigation into the alleged assault and subsequent violence is underway. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for peaceful and constructive ways to address social and economic issues.
Key points
- Three foreigners were arrested in connection with the alleged assault of a demonstrator.
- At least 10 cars were torched and a building set alight during the protests.
- The police were stretched due to multiple demonstrations taking place simultaneously.
