The situation in Diepkloof calmed down on Tuesday morning following several days of intense protests by dissatisfied hostel residents. However, law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and prepared for any potential resurgence of demonstrations.
During Monday’s protests, both police and media vehicles were targeted, and trucks transporting alcohol were looted. These acts of unrest stem from the grievances of residents residing in the hostels, who are demanding an end to the ongoing electricity crisis. Additionally, they are calling for government intervention to address the pressing issues of water and housing shortages in the southern region of Johannesburg.
Despite the absence of immediate signs indicating the reemergence of protests on Tuesday morning, law enforcement agencies are maintaining a state of preparedness. JMPD officers heavily guard the busy Chris Hani Road in Soweto, while police nyalas strategically position themselves near the entrance of the Diepkloof hostels.
However, remnants of Monday’s disturbances still linger. Shattered glass fragments can be observed along the road leading to the hostels, and debris from the previous day’s protests remains scattered on the ground.