Johannesburg : Fears of possible clashes between supporters of Jacob Zuma and People Against Woman Abuse (Powa) protesters have prompted police to enforce strict zones for each group at the high court here as it begins hearing rape allegations against Zuma.

"We have become aware of the difference in ... views about this case and we believe it would be in the best interests of everyone to separate those who support Mr Zuma from those who do not," said police spokesman Wayne Minnaar.

Zuma's attorney, Michael Hulley, said he and the rest of the defence team expected the woman who says she was raped to take to the stand today.

Makhosini Nkosi, spokesman for the National Prosecuting Authority, was unable to confirm this.

"All I know is that the state is going to begin to put its case and call its witnesses," he said.

At the first day of the hearing last month, stones were thrown at a woman mistaken for Zuma's 31-year-old accuser.

Minnaar denied that this incident had prompted police to take steps to ensure Powa protesters were separated from supporters of the Friends of the Jacob Zuma Trust Fund and the ANC Youth League.

"That was an isolated incident," he said.

Powa supporters would be allowed to gather on the west side of the building and Zuma's on the east and south.

Justice Willem van der Merwe is to hear the case.

With acknowledgement to the Cape Times,  Karyn Maughan and Jeremy Gordin.