Random and sporadic cases of violence and looting have erupted in South Africa following the arrest and jailing of former president Jacob Zuma.

The 79-year-old ex-president was sentenced to 15 months in jail for contempt of the Constitutional Court’s order to appear before an inquiry investigating corruption allegations during his tenure.

PHOTO/COURTESY

Zuma’s counsel asked the court to rescind the jail term citing a rule that judgment can be reconsidered if made in the absence of the affected person or containing a patent error.

However, legal experts say the chances of success in the case are somewhat slim.

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Social media has been awash with images and footage of people rioting and looting in Kwa Zulu Natal, Zuma’s home province and has spilt into Johannesburg.

PHOTO/COURTESY

Cases of arson and damage to property have also been reported.

A total of 6 deaths have also been reported and 2 bodies in Gauteng have been found with bullet wounds. 

Umzinto Prison is also reported to be on fire and prisoners can be seen on top of the roof as the chaos fueled by pro-ex-president Zuma supporters continues to spread across parts of the country.

Umzinto Prison. PHOTO/COURTESY

Zuma’s supporters claim he is a victim of a political witch hunt orchestrated by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s allies.