Umbilo CPF on high alert as social media rumours about strike brew

WITH tensions running high after the July lootings, the Umbilo Community Policing Forum (CPF) has called for calm as rumours of a national shutdown circulate across social media platforms.

Umbilo CPF chairperson Calvin Thomas said stakeholders are preparing for any eventuality as they work with Umbilo SAPS to verify if the rumours are true.

“No party or organisation has been able to confirm anything at this stage. Key stakeholders have been placed on high alert, and plans are being put in place should the need arise,” he said.

Thomas called for calm among residents.

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“We urge all residents and business owners to exercise calm and restraint and not to share any unverified information on any social media platforms as this creates unnecessary panic and anxiety,” she said.

He urged the community to contact police on 10 111 or notify local security companies if any suspicious activity is spotted.

In a statement released today, June 9, National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) issued a stern warning to anyone calling for a national shutdown.

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“Those behind these messages are warned and reminded that prohibiting people’s freedom of movement is a criminal offence,” said NATJOINTS.

At a meeting on Wednesday, June 8, NATJOINTS was briefed by the Intelligence Coordinating Committee (ICC) which is closely monitoring the situation and its associated risks.

NATJOINTS called for communities to work with law enforcement authorities to uphold and enforce the law.

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