Reports have been received of protest action in the Bloemfontein city centre and arson leading to fire at the Bloemfontein City Centre. Protest action reportedly from the Union SAMWU.
The fire and police services are on the scene.
Info Received:
Disgruntled municipal workers started a fire inside the Bloemfontein City Hall and clashed with police in the city’s CBD this evening.
Members of SAMWU were supposed to have met with the local union chairperson earlier, following allegations that more than 100 workers are set to be dismissed due to the protracted strike which ended last week. Police dispersed the crowd of over 100 people using stun grenades and rubber bullets. Mangaung Metro Municipality spokesperson, Qondile Khedama, said he cannot comment on the matter at this point.
Around 19:30 the fire appeared to be under control, but then picked up, and by 20:10 three fire trucks were battling to tame the blaze and roads around the area were being cordoned off.
According to information from the scene, the roof of the City Hall collapsed at approximately 20:20.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
