Protesters and councillor’s supporters clash

At least four people were injured outside the home of ANC ward councillor Landile Vika when protesters clashed with his supporters.

Angry residents from Gqozo Village informal settlement marched to Vika’s home on Wednesday demanding answers about when Buffalo City Metro would install electricity boxes in their shacks to curb illegal connections.

The izinyoka crisis has not only claimed lives in the community, it has also caused conflict between shack dwellers and ratepayers who suffer from constant transformer explosions.

On Wednesday morning the residents marched to the municipal office where Vika works, but he was not there as he was in a meeting.

Police dispersed the crowd but by 8pm residents were chanting outside Vika’s home demanding answers.

Moments after the arrival of protesters a vehicle came to fetch Vika’s family including children and someone then stabbed a young protester.

Injured Msindisi Dliso, 23, told the Dispatch yesterday about struggling to sleep after he was stabbed in his back.

Another injured protester, Sindisiwe Zenzile, said after she was attacked in front of Vika’s home more men, who were dropped off by a bakkie, started beating them.

She suffered bruises on her body after she was allegedly beaten with a sjambok.

Police spokesman Lieutenant Nkosikho Mzuku confirmed the police were investigating a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

He said no arrests had been made.

Vika accused the protesters of being used in fighting political battles.

He said he had informed residents that they would get electricity during phase three.