The US Embassy in South Africa on Wednesday, 26th October, warned of a possible terror attack in Sandon, Johannesburg this coming weekend.
“The US government has received information that terrorists may be planning to conduct an attack targeting large gatherings of people at an unspecified location in the greater Sandton area of Johannesburg, South Africa, on 29 October 2022,” the Embassy said an alert on its website.
The Embassy added that it had no further information about the timing, method or target of the potential attack.
“The US Embassy has advised staff to avoid crowds of people and other large public gatherings in the greater Sandton area of Johannesburg during the weekend of 29-30 October 2022,” the Embassy stated.
Previously, the Embassy has issued an alert following the death of a German tourist earlier this month.
“Due to an increase in crime, to include the recent murder of a foreign tourist, the US Embassy in South Africa recommends that US citizens avoid Numbi Gate at Kruger National Park and instead use either Paul Kruger or Phabeni gates when entering and leaving the park,” the Embassy said.
It added that citizens must remember to be situationally aware when travelling and make stops at designated areas, such as garages, and service stations.
“Be mindful that protests and road closures are frequent in the area. It is recommended that everyone contact their lodge or hotel before travel to understand current road and travel conditions. If you encounter issues, contact the police or your lodge,” the Embassy said.
Meanwhile, the South African government said it “noted” the warning.
“It is the responsibility of the South African security forces to ensure that all people within our country feel safe. We are working hard at keeping our nation and her people safe,” it said.
“We continue to monitor for threats to our citizens, nation, and sovereignty. Threats are assessed continuously and are acted upon to ensure the safety of all.”
The government said it would urgently inform South Africans of immediate threats, should the need arise.