The United States Embassy has issued a security alert, warning of a potential terror attack in the greater Sandton area on October 29.
In a security alert issued on October 26, the embassy said that the potential attack may be targeted at large gatherings of people in the area.
“There is no further information regarding the timing, method, or target of the potential attack.”
The embassy had advised its staff to avoid crowds of people and other public large gatherings.
A well-known and highly anticipated large-scale event, Johannesburg Pride, is set to take place in Sandton Central on October 29.
Later in the evening on October 26, the Presidency of South Africa noted the terror alert. The statement said, “The South African government has noted the terror alert issued by the US Embassy on its website. This is part of the US government’s standard communication to its citizens.”
“It is the responsibility of the South African security forces to ensure that all people within our country feel safe.
Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor for any threats to our citizens, our nation and our sovereignty.
Threats are assessed continuously and are acted upon to ensure the safety of all. Should the need arise; the South African government will be the first to inform the public about any imminent threat.”
Sandton City took to Twitter to assure their shoppers and tenants that all protocols are in place. “In partnership with the authorities, we are actively monitoring the situation & have appropriate security measures in place in & around Sandton City, which includes Nelson Mandela Square, offices, hotels & Sandton Convention Centre. The malls are currently trading as normal”
(1/2) Sandton City is aware of the notification by the US Embassy of a possible terrorist attack in the greater Sandton area, planned for the 29th and the 30th October 2022. The safety of all our shoppers, tenants, service providers and stakeholders is of paramount importance…
— Sandton City (@SandtonCity) October 26, 2022
This is a developing story
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