Police at DUT, UKZN on high alert following violent protests

Students at the Durban University of Technology have again clashed with police. 

They had yesterday vowed to continue with their mass action - until their demands regarding student funding are addressed.

While the situation remains fairly calm at present, students have gathered in small groups, and are being monitored closely by police.

There have also been claims that a pregnant student was assaulted by police.

Groups of students have since gathered at the Berea SAPS to lay a charge of assault against the police officer.

The university suspended the academic programme for today and tomorrow, following violent protests at the institution yesterday.

SRC president Zama Ncube says they strongly condemn the violent protest.

Meanwhile, UKZN is still counting the costs of the damage to property since the student protests flared up over fees and other student demands.

Yesterday, a students' residence was set alight, while a cafeteria and vehicles were torched recently.

Students have been protesting over possible 2017 fee increases, the state of residences and were also demanding a representative in council meetings. 

See also: Students must choose to study or protest: UKZN management

Despite the unrest, classes have continued with a high police presence in all five campuses.

The university's Lesiba Seshoka has appealed to the law enforcement agencies to ensure perpetrators are brought to book.

"All we know is that the damage that has been caused to the property is amounting to millions of rands, there's no questions about that. We would be fortunate if it were to run to less than R150-million; it could actually be more than that," he said.