JMPD opens case of public violence against Phumlamqashi residents in wake of protest

JOHANNESBURG - A case of public violence has been opened against residents of Phumlamqashi.

The residents allegedly attacked Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officials, who were accompanying Joburg Water officials who were cutting illegal water connections in the area.

READS: Angry Phumlamqashi residents protest as Johannesburg Water cuts off illegal water connections

Residents said that they were not informed about the water cuts, which is why they resisted the operation.  

JMPD's Xolani Fihla said that no arrests had been made.

"During the operation, the team was met with hostility and pelted with stones resulting in damage to three Joburg Water vehicles and one security vehicle. JMPD officers used rubber bullets to disperse the volatile crowd and the operation was subsequently halted. A case of public violence will be opened at Lenasia South SAPS."