Police Fire Rubber Bullets During Tense Germiston Evictions

Germiston — A tense standoff unfolded in Germiston this morning as police and municipal officials moved in to evict illegal occupiers from residential flats. The confrontation quickly escalated when residents began hurling stones at law enforcement, prompting police to fire rubber bullets in response.

Public Order Policing units, supported by multiple municipal employees in orange vests, gained access to the property after residents had blocked the main entrance. Once inside, officers attempted to break down doors to reach individual units, using bricks and tools to force entry.

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as belongings — including beds and household items — were removed from the flats. Many residents resisted the evictions, continuing to throw stones at police and officials.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether there were any injuries, but the operation remains ongoing. The reason for the eviction, according to officials, is that the occupants have been living on the property illegally.