Fourteen people to appear after Mangaung strike

Fourteen people who were arrested in connection with various charges relating to the municipal strike in Mangaung are expected to appear in court today. Eleven municipal workers from Bloemfontein and three from Botshabelo were arrested yesterday after they resumed their protest action, with Bloemfontein's gutted City Hall as their backdrop. The hall was torched on Wednesday night, with Mangaung Fire and Rescue working until late to douse the flames. Three other people were arrested on that night. Free State police spokesperson, Motansi Makhele says those who were arrested will appear on charges of public violence and the contempt of a court order.

Meanwhile, Makhele says, the investigation into the blaze is underway.