Tuesday, August 11, 2026
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape has taken note of an audio recording currently in circulation across various social media platforms, in which a person purporting to be a member of the Ngcobo Yethu Civic Organisation issues threats to bring about a complete shutdown of the town of Ngcobo, with effect from 05h00 on 11 August 2026.
The organisation has previously led marches in the area concerning municipal grievances.
“SAPS views these threats with the utmost seriousness. In response, the Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, has directed the immediate deployment of additional operational resources, including Public Order Policing units and visible policing task teams, to the Ngcobo policing precinct to ensure public safety and the enforcement of law and order,” the police said in a statement.
SAPS further assured communities across the Eastern Cape that normal policing services and visibility remain fully maintained.
SAPS reaffirmed that the Constitution guarantees the right of every person to assemble peacefully and to protest, provided such actions are conducted within the legal framework.
“SAPS will not hesitate to effect the arrest and institute criminal proceedings against those who threaten public order or infringe upon the rights of others. Any individual or collective that resorts to criminal behaviour will be dealt with decisively and in accordance with the full provisions of the law,” the police said.
Members of the public are advised to remain vigilant but calm. Law enforcement agencies are in full control of the situation and are committed to protecting the constitutional rights and safety of all residents.
Any information pertaining to unlawful activities should be reported immediately to the nearest police station or to the SAPS Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality. – SAnews.gov.za
SAnews
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