The aftermath of destruction in Isipingo, KZN – one of the business districts hit by angry mobs. [Picture: Zahid Jadwat /Salaamedia]
DURBAN / JOHANNESBURG – Shops in a number of business districts in both KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng have been destroyed in the current civil unrest that is currently unfolding in both provinces.
Whilst President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the nation later today (Monday), rioters continue to run amok. Police on the ground in Isipingo, south of Durban, say they have their hands full.
Although the local business forum had hired a private security company to quash the riots, the rioters were determined to wreak havoc in one of the city’s busiest business districts. This afternoon, businessmen were seen assessing the damage in the aftermath of riots that broke out in the area last night.
A trail of destruction in the Isipingo CBD, south of Durban. Local businessmen can be seen assessing the aftermath of the riots that broke out last night, but the situation remains tense with opportunists waiting for the right moment to pounce. Police say they’re struggling. pic.twitter.com/HSD4MaQ61w
— Zāhid Jadwat 🇿🇦 (@zahidjadwat) July 12, 2021
The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry NPC has condemned the acts of violence. “We strongly condemn the violent attacks that have been made on shopping centres and major retailers. We have received several reports in our city and Province of several retailers that have been attacked. Such behaviour is deemed a criminal offense and undermines the rule of law,” the Chamber said.
Meanwhile, several shopping centres and malls in Gauteng were closed, while others experienced looting and violence on Monday. The Rea Vaya and Metrobus services were also suspended.
#Johannesburg | Chaos earlier today in #Jeppestown, Benrose, Denver, Berea and JHB CBD. Several roads barricaded with burning tyres, rocks and debris. JMPD are on scene. Members of the public are advised to avoid these areas.
— salaamedia (@salaamedia) July 11, 2021
📷🗒️ | JMPD pic.twitter.com/xo31sHseKN
Riots are also taking place in other places around both provinces. The South African Defence Force (SANDF) confirmed that troops will be deployed to both provinces to assist the South African Police Service (SAPS).
This is a developing story.
