Twenty people have been arrested this week for public violence in Heilbron, northern Free State police said yesterday.

Twenty people have been arrested this week for public violence in Heilbron, northern Free State police said yesterday.

Superintendent William Mokwena said protesters on Tuesday night blocked the road between Heilbron and Sasolburg with stones and burning tyres.

"Two vehicles were damaged and a driver was slightly injured and robbed of cash."

Police were also investigating two cases of malicious damage to property after two vehicles at a municipal holding area were damaged.

Mokwena said the situation was calm yesterday afternoon and police were monitoring the area.

Last week, about 33 people were arrested in Heilbron during an illegal gathering related to service delivery problems.

"Activities at two secondary schools were disrupted and on Monday night a policeman's house was petrol bombed," said Mokwena.

The 20 protesters will appear in the Heilbron magistrates' court today. - Sapa