The march by members of the Independent Municipal and Trade Workers’ Union (IMATU) went ahead, with fairly minimal disruption to Durban City services on Wednesday 24 Augusy 2011.
One person was arrested and charged with public violence and malicious damage to property. He was later released. Another person had his firearm confiscated by the South African Police Services (SAPS).
In other parts of the City, services continued as normal, with only 8.5% of eThekwini Municipality’s workforce recorded as absent without permission. Sporadic incidents of intimidation occurred and five cases of assault were reported by staff members at various Municipal offices. The Metro Police and SAPS intervened and work resumed. The relevant cases were reported to the SAPS. The injured have been given medical attention and will be back at work soon.
Due to the ongoing intimidation of staff by striking employees, the Municipality is experiencing some backlogs in essential services. However, residents are assured that all enquiries are being attended.
