The Walter Sisulu University campus in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape has descended into chaos after students embarked on a protest to voice their anger over the release of a residence manager who allegedly shot Sisanda Mbolekwa dead last month.

The alleged killer, Manelisi Mampane, was granted R10 000 bail by the Mthatha Magistrate Court yesterday after spending almost a month behind bars.

According to the police in the Eastern Cape, the angry students engaged in a violent protest, which led to the arrest of three of them.

“We condemn reported acts of vandalism, arson, road blockades, or intimidation. Currently three students have been arrested and they will be facing charges of public violence, damage to infrastructure and damage to property,” the police said.

The police stressed that they recognise the profound distress this case has caused within the university community, but the students have to understand that it was ordered by the court.

“SAPS affirms the constitutional right to peaceful protest (Section 17) but emphasizes its mandate to ensure public safety, protect infrastructure, and uphold the rule of law without interfering in judicial independence. The suspect’s release was directed by the court under standard legal procedures. SAPS has no authority over judicial decisions. The murder investigation remains active, prioritized, and ongoing,” the police added.