EMALAHLENI – eMalahleni speaker Mduduzi Nkosi, also known as “Mswati” told the publication he is looking to facilitate talks between the municipality, the law enforcement and the SpringValley community for a solution that works for everyone.
“We will engage all parties involved—the community, law enforcement, and the municipality—to work towards an amicable resolution,” he said.
Mswati said this in the aftermath of an altercation between the municipality and residents of SpringValley on Tuesday, October 22.
The situation turned ugly when eMalahleni housing officials, law enforcement, backed by the Red Ants demolished several houses in the area.
The angry residents retaliated violently resulting to the injury of four people including a law enforcement officer while the other municipal officials and the Red Ants sought refuge at the nearby Victorian Heights Estate.
Two vehicles including a municipal dozer were also set alight.
The residents accused the municipality of effecting demolishings without “prior notice”.
“They came without warning and started tearing down our houses. We had no choice but to fight back,” said a resident who asked to remain anonymous. “We can’t just stand by and watch our homes being destroyed like this.”
The resident added that protesters also forced their way into Estate, pelting stones and breaking four windows.
Mswati also condemned the violence. “We do not promote violence and also, the illegal occupation of municipal land,” he said.
The situation in SpringValley remains volatile as authorities investigate the matter and assess the damages.
