Johannesburg – Residents of Bekkersdal, in the Westonaria municipality, have taken to the streets in demand of better service delivery, police said on Wednesday.

Eighteen people were arrested on Tuesday when some residents forced others to join in the protest, police spokesperson Evelyn Matabane said.

Eleven were arrested for public violence and seven for looting shops belonging to foreigners.

Protesters blockaded major roads within the township with rocks and burning tyres.

They called for the resignation of some councillors and employees of the municipality.

“People are still protesting today [Wednesday]; they want officials from the municipality to come address them and hand over their memorandum of grievances,” said Matabane.

Police would remain on high alert until the situation calmed down.

Those arrested were expected to appear in court soon.

– SAPA