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Special Report Transcript Episode 21, Section 4, Time 17:09Hopefully we are rid of that problem forever. In July 1985 the minister of police declared a state of emergency. The police and the military were given extraordinary powers to quail the rage that was bursting out of the black communities all over South Africa. But people refused to be put down. By August many townships were virtual no-go zones for the security forces. On the edge of East London, Duncan Village was simmering. The assassination of community leader and human rights leader, Victoria Mxenge was the spark that ignited a Powder Keg of discontent. It led to a fortnight of battles between the people and the security forces. Jann Turner reports on the Truth Commission’s look at an event that became known as the Duncan Village massacre. Notes: Max du Preez Violence erupted in Duncan Village, outside East London, following the funeral of slain Durban-based UDF leader Victoria Mxenge in nearby Rayi villageon 11 August 1985. Returning mourners carried out arson attacks on various buildings including the rent office, schools, a beerhall, a bottle store ... A memorial service for slain UDF leader Victoria Mxenge was held in the Umlazi cinema on 8 August 1985. Seventeen people were killed and 20 injured when members of the Amabutho, an Inkatha-based 'community guard force', launched an attack on the mourners. |