DA MP Glynnis Breytenbach said the party has seen WhatsApp messages that link a number of individuals who identified themselves as ANC members to the unrest and violence in KZN and Gauteng.

Police Minister Bheki Cele visited several troubled areas in KZN and Gauteng while “conducting a situational analysis” on Wednesday.

The video taken by a local photographer on Wednesday shows the devastation and destruction in the aftermath of the violent riots and looting.

Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula said a request to increase the number of SANDF members deployed from 5000 to 25 000 would be submitted. The number is a compromise between the 10 000 soldiers President Ramaphosa initially wanted and the 75 000 opposition parties demanded on Wednesday.

Fuel agencies have urged for calm as motorists inundate petrol stations following shortage concerns caused by riots in KZN and Gauteng.

A police officer has been shot and killed while seven others injured in the line of duty during the violent protests across the country.

The suspects accused of looting from shops and other establishments could be in custody a bit longer, if the NPA has anything to do with it

With the situation showing no signs of calm, some reckon that declaring a State of Emergency is the only way to restore order

“We plead with communities to stop attacks on paramedics and EMS vehicles so we can render services to those in urgent need,” said Gauteng EMS.

The Health Department said the country’s vaccination programme is continuing in most provinces. However, the protests have affected the rollout and access to essential healthcare in some districts and areas of KZN and Gauteng.

At least 45 people have died since the start of the unrest in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. More than 750 arrests have been made.

Gauteng Premier David Makhura confirmed that 10 people died in a stampede during looting at Ndofaya Mall in Meadowlands, Soweto. The official death toll in Gauteng since the start of the unrest now stands at 19.

Ramaphosa said that riots in KZN and Gauteng have put food and medicine security in jeopardy, with the most vulnerable set to bear the brunt.

Bringing you verified breaking news and updates on Monday 12 July, from violent protests and looting around South Africa.

Eskom and Metrorail said it has temporarily suspended services in areas affected by protests for the safety of their employees.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the on-going protests in KZN and Gauteng saying acts of criminality won’t be tolerated.