Violent protests at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology have shut down the institution indefinitely and led to their annual open day being postponed on Saturday.
Videos have circulated on social media of students clashing with law enforcement at a residence in Belhar.
In one video, a person believed to be a CPUT student can be seen with a firearm.
It is understood that students are protesting over issues related to the shuttle service, cafeterias and accommodation.
CPUT previously said that the issue was also largely related to a new NSFAS funding condition that any student who was studying for less than 60 course credits was no longer eligible for accommodation, living and transport allowance.
Unrest begun on Monday, when students set alight a supply room near the Education Building at the Bellville campus, while a recreational space, the SS Hall CPUT, had been torched in Wellington.
On Wednesday night, two private vehicles and buildings were torched at the Bellville South campus.
Police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi claimed that almost 100 students were involved in the riot.
“At around 9.45pm they set buildings and vehicles alight on the premises.
“Members of public order police took action when the actions of the students escalated to violence and forced the disgruntled students to disperse,” Swartbooi said.
“We can confirm that no one has since been arrested.”
CPUT SRC president Romano Mpfunzeni claimed they won’t stop until their demands are met: “We want them to meet our demands, whether they do or whatever they want to do, we don’t care.” Asked what these demands were, he did not respond.
All operations at CPUT campuses have now been shut down, CPUT spokesperson Lauren Kansley confirmed.
“Continued violent disruptions, torching of buildings and wanton attacks on institutional infrastructure, have forced CPUT university management to announce the closure of all campuses indefinitely,” she said.
“Unruly students, acting in bad faith, with the sole purpose of making the university dysfunctional have left management with no other choice but to act swiftly and decisively. The safety of staff and students is our primary concern.”
“All residences must be vacated by Friday, 12 May by 4pm. Transport to key areas for students living in other provinces will be provided.”
She also confirmed that CPUT’s open day scheduled for Saturday has been postponed.