Potchefstroom residents took to the streets for the third time on Monday (19/8) to protest against tariff increases in the JB Marks Municipality and the billing system in Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp.

The shutdown organised by members of the community, supported by taxi associations and owners has affected the N12 between Potchefstroom and Matlosana, and the N14 between Ventersdorp and Coligny.

Road intersections around Ikageng, Promosa, Mohadin, and extension are also affected by the shutdown. Protesters blocked roads and the entrances with stones and burning tyres in both directions.

The N12 between Potchefstroom and Matlosana, and the N14 between Ventersdorp and Coligny are affected. Photo supplied

“It is alleged the shutdown is a result of issues around tariff increases in the JB Marks Municipality and billing system between Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp regions,” said JB Marks Municipality spokesperson Jeanette Tshite.

“We urge all motorists to be much more vigilant at all points and cooperate with law enforcement officers who are there to apply law and order and ensure the safety of people and the infrastructure.”

The protest started on Sunday evening in certain parts of Potchefstroom and on Monday several entrances to Potchefstroom have been blocked. Potchefstroom Herald reports no taxis are available for transport due to the strike involving the Taxi associations.

The statement was sent out by SANCO. Photo supplied

A statement sent out by the South African National Civics Organisation (SANCO) said: “The electricity tariff went up by 13% and water, sewerage and waste disposal went up by 6%. On top of that, an R50 basic charge has been added to prepaid electric boxes and R110 for those using municipal power."

“Residents are advised to use alternative routes and are urged to be cautious if they move around the city today. Police are on the scene monitoring the situation,” said Tshite.

OFM News previously reported residents embarked on a protest on the N12 between Potchefstroom and Matlosana on Wednesday (14/8), but the reasons for the demonstrations were not known.

Protesters blocked the road with big stones. Photo supplied

The road between Potchefstroom and Klerksdorp was temporarily closed and traffic brought to a standstill before it was diverted to alternative routes by officers.

Police arrested eight suspects on the N12 between Potchefstroom and Matlosana for disrupting traffic and burning tyres on Wednesday (14/8) and they were charged with public violence.

“The situation is tense at the entrance, but it is monitored by POP which is still on the scene, a total of eight suspects have been arrested since this morning and are charged with public violence,” said North West police spokesperson Adelé Myburgh.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg