Police massed outside the Swartruggens Magistrate’s Court on Thursday in anticipation of the arrival of a large group of protesters ahead of the appearance of Johan Nel on murder charges.
Nel (18) stands accused of killing four and injuring six residents of the Skielik informal settlement, about 10km outside Swartruggens in North West, last Monday.
About 20 riot police were stationed at the entrance to the court by 7.30am. A large contingent of police and metro police from neighbouring towns patrolled the area.
It is understood that the Congress of South African Trade Unions and the union AfriForum intend bussing protesters to the court for the hearing, which is to start at 9am.
Last week AfriForum laid a charge against an African National Congress MP and all other organisers of a demonstration held outside the Swartruggens Magistrate’s Court last Thursday.
Kallie Kriel, AfriForum’s CEO, said it lodged a complaint with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) against Patrick Chauke for alleged hate speech and the incitement of racial tension.
He said Chauke directed blame at the white community during the protest action, where protesters were yelling: ”Kill the Boer, kill the farmer”. — Sapa