Chaos erupted in East London, also known as KuGompo, during a protest opposing the reported coronation of a Nigerian national as king.
More than ten vehicles were set alight as the demonstration, initially peaceful, escalated into violence following unconfirmed reports that a protester had been stabbed.
The protest was organised by several groups, including civic movement March and March, alongside traditional leaders, to denounce the ceremony of Solomon Ogbonna Eziko.
Police intervened, dispersing the crowd with rubber bullets, although no injuries have been officially confirmed.
The acting Nigerian High Commissioner has distanced himself from Eziko, describing the coronation as an isolated incident driven by ignorance.
Eastern Cape Police spokesperson Nobuntu Gantana reported that violence erupted when some participants moved away from city hall, where a petition was being submitted.
In addition to the vehicle damage, several buildings were torched. Fire services and the Public Order Policing Unit remain on the scene as authorities continue to manage the situation.
The situation in KuGompo remains fluid, with updates expected as law enforcement and emergency teams continue their response.
Facebook Comments