Rubber bullets fired in Soweto protest

Johannesburg – Police fired rubber bullets to disperse protesters who blocked several roads in Soweto on Tuesday morning, authorities said.

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Motorists were requested to avoid Elias Motsoaledi Road and Chris Hani Road as these were blocked by rocks and burning tyres, police spokesperson Kay Makhubele told News24.

He said the situation remained tense after police managed to push protesters off the roads.

Roughly 100 to 200 protesters were involved and no arrests were made, Makhubele said.

Johannesburg Metro Police spokesperson Edna Mamonyane said the protest caused major delays from Rea Vaya bus services in Soweto.

On Twitter, the Rea Vaya account said services were operating normally, but commuters should expect delays.

Mamonyane said authorities would try to ensure relevant people met with protesters to address their concerns.

Protesters are complaining about prepaid electricity meter boxes, and an apparent 6 000 litre water allowance which is being revoked.

Protest in Soweto pic.twitter.com/1fOCfFbxNV

— Zwidesto (@nxumalo4) July 4, 2017

GP/Johannesburg | Protest in Progress | Roads Barricaded | Elias Motswaledi | Mputhi St, Foxlake, Soweto (Avoid Area use another route)

— Alert South Africa (@AlertZaAfrica) July 4, 2017