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Durban - Violent protests relating to an increase in taxi fares have erupted in Ezakheni near Ladysmith, and left the area completely cut off on Monday.
Tensions, that have apparently simmered for several days, boiled over on Monday when rioters barricaded all routes in and out of the township and adjacent industrial zone, in response to a R1 increase in taxi fares effective from Saturday.
A large police presence comprising of officers from the Tactical Response Team and the Public Order Policing Unit have been deployed.
Police spokesperson Major Thulani Zwane said the violent uprising flared up early on Monday morning.
"The most affected area is Ezakheni, with all routes in and out of the area blocked by rocks, broken bottles and burning tyres,” he said.
"Parts of Steadville, which borders on Ezakheni, are also affected. The Helpmekaar Road is closed as well as the Pieters Road between Ladysmith and Ezakheni and between Colenso and Ezakheni.
"POP members as well as TRT and personnel from stations in the cluster are on the ground," Zwane added.
