Wits responds after a 35-year-old man dies during student protest
They added that two student reporters were also injured, and
three protestors were arrested and taken to the Hillbrow Police Station.
The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) has responded to the death of a civilian during the protest action at the institution on Wednesday.
In a statement, Wits says it is "deeply saddened" to learn of the passing of the 35-year-old man in the Braamfontein CBD outside of the institution this morning.
The university's Executive Team says in the statement they condemn any form of violence "and call on all persons to keep calm during this very difficult time."
"Initial reports suggest that a civilian was caught in clashes between the protestors and SAPS, and regrettably lost his life," they said.
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They added that two student reporters were also injured, and three protestors were arrested and taken to the Hillbrow Police Station.
"Queries directly related to this incident should be directed to the SAPS, as they were on the scene and were managing the matter as a public order incident," they noted.
The university noted the "escalation of the situation which is regrettable, and we call on all persons to remain calm during this difficult time."
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has dispatched four investigation officers to probe the incident, saying they will also investigate video footage of the inside and speak to eyewitnesses.
