The murder of Andries Tatane

The murder of Andries Tatane is part of an epidemic of police violence and murder against community activists supported by the South African government.

Media: Police ‘behind shack attack’

shack dwellers claim they were targeted

September 30, 2009 Edition 1
NTOKOZO MFUSI – The Mercury

POLITICAL and police involvement have been said to be behind the mob that attacked residents of the Kennedy Road informal settlement in Sydenham, Durban, killing two men on Saturday night.

This has been alleged by Abahlali baseMjondolo (shack dwellers’ movement), which said that its members had been targeted during attacks by the mob, acting on orders from ANC leaders, who have denied the allegations.

Joint Statement on the attacks on the Kennedy Road Informal Settlement in Durban

28 September 2009 – for more photos click here

We note with concern the reports of the violent attacks on members of the Abahlali baseMjondolo Movement (ABM) in the Kennedy Road informal settlement community in Durban. The attacks were reportedly carried out by persons associated with the local branch of the African National Congress, and were actively supported by officers of the South African Police Service.

We note reports that around 30 ABM members’ houses were demolished by men wielding guns and bush knives, and that their families were rendered homeless. At least three people are reported dead. That total may rise. Hundreds of men women and children are now taking refuge in surrounding undergrowth, under bridges and in neighbours’ homes.

The living room of Sbu Zikode's home after the attack - 28 September