After announcing a total shut down in Lenasia South, Ennerdale and Zakarriyya Park by Deep South Communities, the later indeed stuck to their word.
The three suburbs were on complete shutdown, with protests beginning as early as 5am on Friday, July 19.
The protests, calling on government to intervene in the mushrooming of illegal informal settlements and rife land grabbing in the area.
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Residents called for an end to land grabbing and the illegal occupation of government land, many of them citing the negative effects the illegal occupations had on their property value. Many also mentioned the negative impact due to illegal electricity and water connections. Sewage systems are getting blocked.
Although the protests were meant to be peaceful, it has been alleged that four people were shot and injured during the protests. According to Lenasia South SAPS spokesperson, sergeant Khalipha Mvula, there had been a stand-off between residents and illegal land dwellers which saw the two pelting each other with stones. Shots were also fired.
No vehicles nor persons were being allowed into or out of the suburbs.
There is a heavy police presence in the area.
On Tuesday, July 16, JMPD together with the SAPS removed illegal shacks erected at Narans Farm. The demolitions however, saw illegal dwellers take to the streets in protest.
Roads affected include the Golden Highway, the K43 Road and James Street in Ennerdale.
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