117 dead, 20,000 troops deployed as unrest persists in S’Africa
At least 117 persons have died and 1700 arrested in the unrest that has continued to rock South Africa for the eighth day.
Protests erupted last week Friday when former South African President, Jacob Zuma, 79, turned himself in to authorities to serve a 15-month jail term for contempt of court. He had refused to appear at an anti-corruption commission to face several allegations including bribery and fraud which he repeatedly denied.
However, the unrest widened into grievances over inequality and poverty.
Many have died in a stampede in the township of Soweto, Police Ministry Spokesperson Lirandzu Themba, said. More than 1,200 others have been arrested in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal where thousands of people stole food, electric appliances, liquor and clothing from stores.
“The unrest has also disrupted hospitals struggling to cope with a third wave of COVID-19. They say they are running out of oxygen and drugs, most of which are imported through Durban.
“Some vaccination centres have been forced to shut.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa told leaders of political parties that parts of the country “may soon be running short of basic provisions” following disruption of supply chain”.
