Tuesday, 13 June 2017

Abahlali baseMjondolo Press Statement

One death and several injuries in Marianhill, three arrests in Kranskop

Today we came under serious attack from the Land Invasions Unit in eMansenseni in Marianhill. One person is confirmed dead, two are in a critical condition in hospital and a number of others are injured – all shot in the back. It was a war zone. The Land Invasions Unit didn’t talk to anyone. They just fired live ammunition. The intention was clearly to kill, to teach a lesson.

There was also an eviction in Kranskop resulting in three arrests.

Brutal evictions are on the rise across Durban. Protest is also coming under serious repression. Just two weeks ago we lost baby Jayden Khosa to a police attack in Clare Estate.

Ten months ago Zandile Gumede became the new mayor. We were told that she was going to be a caring mayor. Now violent and illegal evictions, and violent repression of protest, have returned. Our members have suffered more than ten evictions. We are being killed.

We will issue a detailed statement tomorrow and announce a major protest action in central Durban.

Thapelo Mohapi 062 892 5323

Mqapheli Bonono 073 067 3274

S’bu Zikode 083 547 0474