Eldorado Park teen's shooting death, allegedly by police, sparks violent protest
The disabled teenager died in hospital on Wednesday night, allegedly after he was shot and wounded by police in the area.
JOHANNESBURG – There is a stand-off tense stand-off between police and furious Eldorado Park residents who were venting their anger over the death of a 16-year-old boy.
The disabled teenager died in hospital on Wednesday night, allegedly after he was shot and wounded by police in the area.
The boy’s family claim he was shot after failing to respond to questions from police, but point out he wasn't able to comply due to his disability.
Community members are demanding justice for his death.
Police have fired rubber bullets in an attempt to disperse the angry crowd. While its being reported that at least three officers had been injured.
The local police station had also been damaged in the protest.
The South African Police Service has called for calm and restraint, assuring residents that the Independent Investigative Police Directorate (IPID) is investigating the matter.
Spokesperson Mathapelo Peters said: “This was brought to our attention at province this morning, and immediately IPID was summoned. So, IPID is on the ground and they are investigating. Because of this, we are not at liberty to comment on this incident at the moment.”
Earlier stun grenades were thrown to try to move protesters from the entrance of the police station.
Residents say they want Police Minister Bheki Cele and Community Safety MEC Faith Mazibuko to come to the area, to address them.
Some protesters, who have been wounded by rubber bullets, received medical attention from paramedics who are also at the scene.
Motorists have been advised to avoid Turf Road and Buckingham Avenue, near the police station, as they have been blocked with rocks and burning tyres.
