[DEBATE] : (Fwd) Eskom protests begin

[Patrick Bond]

(Unfortunately, like so many other protests, they're not targeted 
perfectly accurately.)

Metrorail reacts to burnt trains
19 January 2008, 13:07

Metrorail will hold a press conference in Pretoria on Saturday to
discuss the burning of trains by commuters on Friday night, said
Metrorail spokesperson Pule Mabe.

Mabe said chief executive of the South African Rail Commuter Corporation
(SARCC), Lucky Montana would address the media in Pretoria north
following the burning of seven trains by angry commuters in Tshwane.

Tshwane police earlier reported that angry commuters burnt six Metrorail
trains after power cuts delayed trains for more than two hours.

Montana condemned the incident labelling it "an act of criminals" which
would possibly lead to the immediate closure of certain lines in Tshwane.

Captain Prince Mokhabela said the incidents happened around 6pm on
Friday night.

"The trains were not moving and commuters got angry and started setting
trains alight" said Mokhabela.

Mokhabela said the first fire was at Pretoria North station where
commuters set the seats in the train alight. Security guards were able
to extinguish the fire.

Trains at the Winternest, Acacia Boom and Wolmerton stations were also
set alight.

No one was injured and no arrests had been made.

Police were investigating a case of malicious damage to property.

Montana told the SABC that trains had been suspended with immediate
effect along the Mabopane and Ga-Rankuwa lines.

The press conference was due to be held at the Wolmerton Station in
Pretoria North at noon on Saturday. - Sapa