Seven arrested in Durban CBD protest
Updated | By ECR Newswatch
Police have detained over 20 people who were among protesters in Durban - who want the eThekwini mayor to be allowed back at work.
The protest by Zandile Gumede supporters began this morning outside the Durban City Hall.
It then became chaotic - with clashes between the crowd and the protesters breaking out.
Seven people were arrested for public violence.
The crowd was dispersed by riot police - but it regrouped later and marched to the Durban Central Police Station and the magistrate's court - demanding the release of those arrested.
They then moved to the Gugu Dlamini Park where another scuffle broke out and more people were detained.
The spokesperson of the protesters, Sduduzo Magwaza says this afternoon's group was arrested after the streets near the park were trashed.
NOW READ: LISTEN: Police disperse Durban CBD crowds
"I was told by the people in charge of the police to say they were throwing bins on the road. They are going to be taken to the police station, processed and released in the morning," Magwaza said.
The media community is outraged after two journalists were arrested during the scuffles outside Durban City Hall.
Reporters were also threatened by the protesters.
The South African Editors Forum says they are disturbed to hear about the arrests and attacks on journalists.
It's called on eThekwini Municipality to investigate the matter and have the charges dropped.
SANEF's Mary Papaya says they're also calling on the ANC leadership in KZN to take swift action against their members who disregard the role of media.
"Media has an important role to play in our democracy and our constitution protects such a right. When journalists who report for the public good are attacked - it means the public is robbed of information and of the truth," Papaya said.
Show's Stories
-
Chinese sightseeing destination looking to hire a Monkey King
You can be a Monkey King for an easy R15k a month.
Carol Ofori 17 hours ago -
Woman shows us what she does when dating apps don't work
We guess this method of finding the one is worth the risk...
Vic Naidoo 17 hours ago