One person has died amid violent protests by Diepkloof hostel residents at the Diepkloof Interchange in Soweto, Johannesburg, where demonstrators have blocked major highways with rocks and burning tyres, demanding better water supply, sanitation, and infrastructure.
The protests have caused significant traffic disruptions, leaving commuters stranded as key routes remain inaccessible. Authorities are urging motorists to avoid the area as clashes between protesters and law enforcement intensify.
In addition to the road blockades, there have been reports of looting in the vicinity, further escalating tensions. The exact circumstances surrounding the fatality remain unclear, though police have confirmed the death and are investigating.
Residents say they have been neglected by local government, with persistent service delivery failures prompting the demonstrations. “We have no water, our toilets are broken, and no one is listening to us,” said one protester.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has deployed public order units to the scene in an attempt to restore calm.