Two arrested for attempting to burn councillor's house

Two people have been arrested after a failed attempt to torch their ward councillor's house at Embekweni township in East London this morning.

The two bring a total number of people arrested to eight since the eruption of a chaotic service delivery protest by angry residents of Gwiqini Village also known as Ikhwezi block.

The protest, which started at 5am, is currently under way on the R346 where protesters are burning tyres. Police have warned motorists to use alternative routes.

ANC Ward 24 councillor Zameka Kodwa-Gajula who has enjoyed two terms at the helm of undeveloped Ikhwezi Village, is under fire for her alleged ineffectiveness.

Police spokesman captain Mluleki Mbi said the suspects stoned the councillor's house and damaged windows. They will appear in court soon for malicious damage to property.

Mbi said five were arrested for public violence after blockading the R346 road linking East London areas with King William's Town areas with burning tyres.