The riots on the campus of the University of Venda last Tuesday took a new turn when 156 students appeared in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday last week. They were charged with public violence, malicious damage to property and assault on police.

All students were released on free bail and the case has been postponed to December 4. In the meantime, the academic activities at the university have returned to normal.

Six police officers had to receive medical treatment after they were stoned and assaulted by the students during the riots. Twelve police vehicles and university property were also damaged. Students also attempted to torch three police vehicles but the fire was immediately put out by the fire fighters who swiftly responded to the situation.

Inflamed students allegedly attacked police and security officers who were trying to protect a suspected rapist who was found taking a bath in a female residence. They then alleged that he was the one who was responsible for a spate of rapes and attempted rapes on the campus. The man is neither a student nor a staff member of the university. The suspect was later whisked off the campus through the Maungani gate.