Two killed in Diepkloof protest
Two people lost their lives during a service delivery protest in Diepkloof, Soweto, on Monday morning.
According to police, the unrest began around 5 am when residents from the Diepkloof hostel blocked the Diepkloof Interchange, demanding government intervention in what they describe as years of neglect.
During the protest, a pedestrian was struck by a car and later died in the hospital.
In a separate incident, a truck driver attempting to escape stone-throwing protesters drove into the hostel area, hitting two people. A man died on the scene, while a woman was taken to the hospital with injuries.
Gauteng police spokesperson Mavela Masondo confirmed that the truck driver has been located and is cooperating with authorities.
“We are pleased that we managed to get the driver so that we are able to get from him what really transpired when he was here at the hostel, but he has already briefed me on what happened but obvious we need to get a statement from him, but the driver that came here is safe and he is around Johannesburg,” Masondo said.
Police have opened a case of public violence, and Masondo noted that additional charges may follow as investigations progress.
Currently, we have opened a case of public violence pending further investigation; more charges may be added, but for now, it’s public violence. We have got our investigators that are here already investigating what transpired from the start,” he added.
Frustrated residents allege they've been living in dire conditions for years, despite past promises from former Johannesburg mayor Kabelo Gwamanda to improve infrastructure and basic services in the area.
Protesters also claim the land they occupy has been sold to a white owner without their knowledge or consent.
Meanwhile, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department confirmed that the Diepkloof Interchange has been reopened to traffic following the protest. However, delays are expected on the N12 West due to an earlier incident involving a truck that was reportedly looted and set alight.
“Motorists are urged to exercise patience, drive cautiously, and consider alternative routes if possible to avoid the expected congestion on the N12 West,” said JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla.
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