Tensions flared in Bonteheuwel yesterday as police officers clashed with a group of suspected gangsters during a march by the anti-crime movement PAGAD (People Against Gangsterism and Drugs).
The march, which was flanked by a large police contingent to monitor proceedings, saw PAGAD members walking the streets of the community to protest against gangsterism and drugs.
Gang members reportedly tried to intimidate PAGAD members shortly after the march started, with police officers forming a barrier between the marchers and the gangsters.
The gangsters then started throwing stones at the police, resulting in officers retaliating by firing stun grenades and rubber bullets.
According to reports, several people were arrested.
Ahead of the march, PAGAD’s national coordinator, Haroon Orrie, said gangsters are no longer welcome in communities.
Orrie says the community of Bonteheuwel called on PAGAD to take a stand against gangs. This followed the murder of an infant in the area on Friday.
READ: Shock and anger as three-month-old baby is shot and killed in Bonteheuwel
