BOITEKONG residents in Rustenburg went on a rampage and torched six vehicles on Wednesday night.
  Residents were angry after a disagreement with local mines operating in Ramochana village over their recruitment processes.

  Community leader, Thabo Nthaudi said mining houses reneged on their employment promises leaving residents in the dark.

  Angry residents took to the streets and vented their anger by setting alight an ambulance, a municipal vehicle and four others belonging to a security company.

   “We want to condemn the violent protests, however people were felt short-changed. The mine was supposed to recruit local people but changed their minds on the 11^th hour. However we met with them on Thursday and reached an agreement.

 “They promised to incorporate local business persons to render their services at the mines. People who own cleaning, security and other companies will benefit. We cannot continue to live in abject poverty while we have mines at our door-step,” Nthaudi said.

  Rustenburg local municipality spokesperson, Thapelo Matebesi said it was unfortunate that six vehicles were torched in Boitekong.

  “The torching of vehicles was fuelled by some community members who complained about lack of job opportunities in the neighbouring mines and at municipal sewer plant. The area remains volatile after intervention by the municipality’s public safety directorate in collaboration with police,” Matebesi said.

  North West police spokesperson, Col Sabata Mokgwabone said the police in Boitekong were investigating a case of public violence.

  “The vehicles were set alight at a sport ground in Sunrise Park extension 11. They were allegedly taken individually from the drivers by a group of approximately ten people. Investigations are underway,” Mokgwabone said.

-TDN

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