Violence linked to ongoing service delivery protests in Ratanda, Gauteng, has resulted in the arrest of 15 people, while police continue searching for those responsible for setting the Lesedi Local Municipality executive mayor’s house on fire.
The unrest erupted after residents staged protests over prolonged water shortages that have affected the community for weeks. Frustration over the lack of reliable water supply escalated into violent demonstrations, with roads blocked, property damaged and clashes reported between protesters and law enforcement.
According to Gauteng police, the 15 suspects were arrested on charges related to public violence during the protests. However, authorities confirmed that no one has yet been arrested in connection with the arson attack on the home of Lesedi Local Municipality Executive Mayor Mluleki Nkosi.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili said detectives are continuing with their investigations and are following every available lead to identify those responsible for torching the mayor’s residence.
She added that police officers remain deployed throughout Ratanda to maintain law and order while investigations into all criminal activities committed during the unrest continue.
The demonstrations were sparked by growing anger over ongoing water supply disruptions, which residents say have made daily life extremely difficult. The municipality has attributed the crisis to financial challenges and debt owed to Rand Water, which led to reduced bulk water supply under credit control measures.
What began as a service delivery protest quickly escalated into widespread violence, culminating in the destruction of the mayor’s home. Images of the burnt property circulated widely on social media, highlighting the extent of the damage caused during the unrest.
The protests also turned deadly. Two people lost their lives during the demonstrations, with the exact circumstances surrounding their deaths still under investigation. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is reportedly examining allegations that police gunfire may have been involved.
The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has strongly condemned the violence, describing the burning of the mayor’s house and other acts of destruction as unacceptable. The organisation acknowledged that communities have a constitutional right to protest over poor service delivery but stressed that violence, intimidation and the destruction of property cannot be justified.
Meanwhile, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has appealed for calm while government works to stabilise the water supply. During a visit to Ratanda, he confirmed that water has been restored to many parts of the community, although some higher-lying areas may still experience delays as reservoirs refill. The provincial government has also engaged with Rand Water to prevent further disruptions while the municipality addresses its financial obligations.
Authorities have urged residents to remain peaceful as investigations continue. Police say those responsible for criminal acts committed during the protests, including the torching of the mayor’s home, will be identified and brought before the courts. The situation in Ratanda remains under close monitoring as law enforcement maintains a strong presence in the area to prevent any further unrest.
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