Protesters Demand Closure of Nigerian-Owned Nightclub

On Wednesday, protesters marched in Kugompo City, South Africa, demanding the closure of a nightclub known as California Tavern, which is reportedly linked to drug-related activities. The demonstration was organized by Nondumiso Tyiso and followed a previous protest by the anti-immigrant group Dudula.

This earlier protest reportedly triggered unrest in Buffalo City, where Somali-owned shops were looted and vehicles set on fire. In response to fears of potential violence, police, led by spokesperson Hazel Mqala, maintained a heavy presence in the area.

The protest aimed to submit a memorandum to the nightclub owner, but tensions escalated when protesters attempted to enter the Belgrav Hotel, which houses the nightclub. Police intervened to prevent violence and property damage, using stun grenades and rubber bullets to disperse a few individuals involved in criminal activities.

Nobuntu Gantana from the South African Police Service confirmed that several arrests were made, and 11 criminal cases were opened following the unrest.