In Durban, police disperse anti-immigrant march with rubber bullets
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on IOL
South African police used rubber bullets and stun grenades to disperse members of the March and March movement in Umbilo, Durban, accused of throwing stones at officers. According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda, the group was violating a temporary court order banning marches after 3pm and the carrying of weapons. No police officer was injured and an investigation has been opened.
Police used rubber bullets and stun grenades to disperse protesters from the anti-immigrant March and March movement in Umbilo, a Durban suburb, on Tuesday afternoon. According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda, quoted by IOL, protesters allegedly threw stones at officers.
According to Robert Netshiunda, the group left the tents where it is camping, opposite the Home Affairs offices, shortly after 3pm to march along Che Guevara Road. Most of the marchers were carrying dangerous weapons, including sticks, and some had their faces concealed by masks or other items. Public order police officers stopped them and reminded them of a temporary court order. It bans marches after 3pm, the carrying of dangerous weapons and the concealment of faces. The situation degenerated during the discussion, according to police. The protesters also had no marshals, as required by law.
Police say they used minimal and proportionate force. No injuries were reported among officers, its spokesperson said. Officers remained deployed at the scene. An investigation has been opened into possible violations of the order and into the alleged assault on police officers.
The incident follows the court ruling of 30 October that regulates anti-immigrant protests in Durban. On 9 November, KwaZulu-Natal police remained mobilised during coalition negotiations.
