Police keep watchful eye on courtroom as students gather to support Fees Must Fall leader

17 October 2016 - 14:02 By Julia Madibogo

There was a heavy police presence at the Johannesburg Magistrates Court were arrested student leader Mcebo Dlamini was due to appear. The former University of the Witwatersrand Student Representative Council president Mcebo Dlamini – who is also one of the leaders of the Fees Must Fall campaign - was taken into custody in the early hours of Sunday morning.Dlamini is facing a a charge of public violence and not assaulting a police officer as previously reported.A heavily armed member of the Tactical Response Team stationed at the door of court 5‚ where Dlamini was set to appear‚ dissuaded the movement of people in and out of the room.When one protester asked to go to the bathroom‚ he shouted: “No‚ you can't go out. If you want out you are out‚ you can't come back in here.”Outside court‚ a large number of students sat on the benches.Anglican Bishop of Pretoria Jo Seoka‚ who has been a supporter of the Fees Must Fall movement‚ was also present.“I am just here to see what exactly it is that is happening. I am here to offer my support. I haven't spoke to him [Mcebo] yet‚ but I will‚" he said.Nine other students arrested at the weekend will appear at the Hilbrow Magistrates Court. - TMG Digital..

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