Motorists urged to stay away from R21 highway in Ekurhuleni due to protest

JOHANNESBURG - Motorists are being urged to stay away from the R21 highway in Ekurhuleni due to an ongoing protest.  

It's believed Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) employees have blocked the southbound lane before the Benoni off-ramp.  

But the city's spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, said the metro was not notified about the protest.  

“We have received reports through the media and social media that our officers are embarking on a protest. We do not have any notification on this particular exercise, nor can we confirm nor deny that it is taking place.”

EMPD STRIKE ILLEGAL

The City of Ekurhuleni said their EMPD’s strike is illegal.  

The EMPD officers blocked major highways with their vehicles, causing traffic disruptions on the R24 westbound between OR Tambo Interchange and Electron Interchange.  

Earlier in March, the Municipal Employees and Civil Servants Union (MECSU) issued a statement of demands rejecting the decrease in overtime hours.  

Dlamini said they are currently communicating with relevant stakeholders to resolve the issues.