A man believed to be the instigator of the recent violent protests in Cathcart has been denied bail.
Spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Luxolo Tyali says the bail hearing of 47-year-old Mziwebongo Burwana, who is the chairperson for the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) in Cathcart had to be moved to Mdantsane after court staff came under attack from protesters who had to be rescued by police.
The illegal protests started on the 9th of February and were apparently in response to the Bhisho Health Department reportedly planning to close the healthcare facility in Cathcart.
Burwana is facing charges of public violence, robbery with aggravating circumstances, attempted murder as well as illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The ongoing protests led to the closure of the N6 road passing through town, trucks being set alight and private vehicles pelted with stones.
The NPA's Tyali says when police responded they came under attack.
He says one officer, the complainant, was hit from behind and fell, when Burwana allegedly wrestled his firearm away, aimed it at the officer and attempted to shoot him twice.
When the firearm did not discharge, Burwana allegedly ran away and was only caught three days later.
In opposing bail, Prosecutor Jongile Yako led the evidence of the investigating officer and convinced the court that Burwana's release on bail would endanger public safety and undermine public order and security.
The case has been postponed to 05 April 2024.
Earlier this month police confirmed the arrests of nine people between the ages of 15 and 54.
