Julius Malema supporters clash with police in Johannesburg

South African police have fired stun grenades at supporters of controversial ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema ahead of his disciplinary hearing, BBC reported.

Mr Malema, 30, is accused of "sowing divisions" in the party and bringing it into disrepute by calling for Botswana's government to be overthrown.

Once a close ally of President Jacob Zuma, the populist Mr Malema has become a fierce critic.

His supporters threw stones at police who were blocking them in Johannesburg.

The police have erected a steel gate and barbed wire to close the main street leading to Luthuli House, the African National Congress headquarters where the hearing is being held.

Hundreds of Mr Malema's supporters are outside, chanting and setting rubbish on fire.

Mr Malema, who is charged along with five other top youth league officials, could be expelled from the ANC at the closed-door hearing.