Calm in Durban and surrounds amid shutdown threats

A national shutdown somewhat turned into a state of national confusion as many citizens, even on Friday morning, were not sure what day it was supposed to be or who was behind the state shutdown. 

This has prompted many to stay home, something that was evident when Newswatch drove through the Durban CBD.  

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A group of hawkers Newswatch spoke to say by now, they would have pocketed something towards feeding their families, but because there was little foot traffic this was not the case. 

In the ciyt's market area, bus and taxi operators also felt the pinch, as many of them had to move empty vehicles per operational requirements. 

Along the north coast, it was quiet also. 

Sightings of military vehicles have been reported heading north. 

The current situation of calm comes as social media has been abuzz with old visuals of stores being looted, as well as overnight protests and one of UKZN campuses. 

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There are also reports that Cornubia Mall and Makro in Springfield were to be targeted at the height of the shutdown.

Speculation has been wide and varied about today, during the time when government is still holding talks with various stakeholders who have communicated that only once talks have concluded will a decision be made regarding the national shutdown.