While calm has returned to Philippi East after violent protests, tensions between the Cape Town communities of Lower Crossroads and the Marikana informal settlement remain high.

Marikana community leader, Joseph Makeleni, told News24 community meetings and negotiations would continue “until everyone is happy”.

“Our fight was never with the people of Lower Crossroads. It is with government. We want and need basic services.”

Negotiations and community meetings continue after unrest broke out last week, resulting in three men being killed and a number of people injured.

City of Cape Town safety and security director Richard Bosman said no incidents have been reported since Sunday morning.

“We will, however, remain on scene to monitor the situation,” he said.

What was initially a service delivery protest by Marikana shackdwellers demanding services escalated into unrest when neighbouring Lower Crossroads residents retaliated as they felt they were being inconvenienced by the protest, which saw tyres burnt and roads barricaded.

Several shacks were damaged, as well as municipal buildings and schools.

A number of locals were arrested for public violence and arson.

The action resulted in property damages worth R20m.

Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Andre Traut, said while the situation in Marikana was under control, “it is still tense”.

“Police deployments will remain in the area to maintain law and order until we are satisfied that the area has stabilised.” News24