Braamfontein roads closed as students protest

Johannesburg - A police vehicle has allegedly been set alight near Noswal Hall in Braamfontein.

Police confirmed that the van was burning, but were not immediately able to provide further details.

Earlier on Tuesday afternoon, motorists were advised to use alternative routes around Braamfontein after roads were closed when people started throwing rocks at vehicles.

Johannesburg Metro Police Department spokesperson Wayne Minnaar said the roads between Jorissen Street and Ameshoff Street had been closed since 17:00. It is unclear when they will be reopened.

He said Bertha Street, outside Wits University, was also affected, and that the road was strewn with rocks and stones.

The spokesperson warned motorists to avoid this area, and to rather use Empire Road, the M1 freeway or Smit Street.

Minnaar said students are gathered in the vicinity of the road closures and "are likely" to be behind the incident. No arrests have been made.

Meanwhile, Wits spokesperson Shirona Patel said there have been no disruptions to the academic programme over the past two days.

"All lectures and assessment have gone ahead," she confirmed.

According to the university, peaceful demonstrations by students with disabilities and workers took place on Monday and their memorandums were handed over to the dean of students.