The South African Police Service (SAPS) has come out strongly to dismiss a circulating WhatsApp message claiming that a planned shutdown will bring Gauteng to a standstill today, Monday 26 May. SAPS has labelled the message as false, misleading, and intended to cause panic.
National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, warned members of the public not to fall for the fake alert which falsely suggests that highways will be blocked, schools closed, and certain foreign diplomatic missions and food outlets targeted.
“We are not going to allow lawlessness and acts of criminality. Those who are found on the wrong side of the law will be dealt with accordingly,” said General Masemola.
He added that the N1 Sandton, N1 Pretoria, M1, and M2 motorways remain open and operational – there are no road closures or shutdowns planned or permitted.
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According to SAPS, law enforcement in Gauteng, led by Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni and supported by JMPD, TMPD, EMPD, National and Provincial Traffic authorities, and private security firms, is on high alert to swiftly act against any attempts to cause disruptions.
SAPS reiterated that the viral WhatsApp message is a scare tactic aimed at bullying communities and inciting violence, and warned those behind it to stop spreading fake news or face the consequences.
“Everything from businesses to schools and public services will be fully operational. There is no need to panic,” SAPS said.
The public is urged to remain calm, ignore the WhatsApp message, and not share it further. SAPS also called on communities to help uphold the law and reject any form of lawlessness.
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