The embassy on Wednesday warned that one of South Africa’s wealthiest suburbs could be hit this weekend and advised its staff to avoid crowds and other mass gatherings. . The UK Office for Foreign Affairs, Commonwealth and Development has issued a travel warning echoing the US statement. “It is regrettable that the US government has issued this kind of warning without discussing it thoroughly with us,” Ramaphosa said on Thursday during a briefing in the capital, Pretoria.

“Unfortunately, another government is making threats to the point of panicking our people.”

Authorities are working to verify the threat and the government will issue a warning if necessary, he said.

US mission spokesman David Feldmann declined to comment further when contacted by phone.

Official Presidential Statement on Warning Wednesday:

The South African government has noted the terror warning published by the US Embassy on their website. This is part of the US government’s standard communication with its citizens.

The South African Security Force is responsible for ensuring that everyone in our country feels safe.

Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor any threats to our citizens, our nation, and our sovereignty.

Threats are constantly being evaluated and taken into account to keep everyone safe. If the need arises; The South African government will be the first to notify the public of any impending threats.

City of Joburg responding to

City of Johannesburg, meanwhile, also responding to the warning, said it was taking the matter seriously and taking additional precautions before an end date. eventful week.

“The multi-party government in Johannesburg has taken seriously the security warning issued by the US Embassy in the Republic of South Africa and the subsequent travel advice issued by the UK, all of which have been issued two warnings of a potential terrorist attack in Joburg, particularly in the Sandton area, over the weekend,” he said. United States of Johannesburg, Vincent Spera, contacted her to notify her. her about the embassy detecting a potential attack in the city.

“To ensure that the city is informed and well prepared for any eventuality, I spoke to the Commissioner of the South African Gauteng Provincial Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant General Elias Mawela, asking to share. all information and all information. with the City,” she said.

“The Provincial Commissioner assured me that the necessary measures have been taken and nothing will happen.

MMC for Public Safety, Cllr David Tembe and Joburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Acting Superintendent Thulani Khanyile said tangible police resources have been deployed to the Sandton area. “I have further requested the City’s Joint Operations Commission (JOC) to provide a comprehensive list of events taking place in Johannesburg over the next few days, which will be shared with law enforcement agencies. and the national government,” Phalatse said.

The JOC is responsible for ensuring that all events held in Joburg are safe and that event organizers comply with all city ordinances and regulations.

The structure is made up of city units and departments – namely event management, disaster management, city parks and zoos, municipal electricity, emergency management services, environmental health, Johannesburg Development Authority, JMPD, Johannesburg Water, Johannesburg Road Authority, Metrobus and Pikitup – and the South African National Government Police Service.

“The multi-party government has prioritized safety and security and will provide all the resources and support required by SAPS and the national government to ensure the safety of Joburg residents and visitors. Without causing panic, I would like to encourage residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to SAPS by calling the emergency number 10111,” the mayor said.

Take the threat seriously – IRMSA Chief Advisor

at the Institute of Risk Management South Africa (IRMSA) Christopher Palm says that whether the terrorist threat materializes or not, the region’s companies are affected. influence – Sandton – should take the matter seriously.

“While the Secretary of the President has dismissed the US government’s warning, I will recommend a risk response strategy for organizations to consider, as it does not interfere with important conversations about how to know what to do when a situation is potentially violent and dangerous or could turn out to be the same,” he said.

“Keep in mind that this situation could also lead to unrest and/or looting whether or not the warning actually comes to fruition. You should prepare your general emergency response plans and business continuity plans. Be careful.”

Palm says companies might consider the following:

Stay away from the identified area, in this case the Sandton area, especially over the weekend of October 29. 2022.

The warning also identifies, not just an area, but ‘large groups’ – needless to say, if you absolutely must be in and around Sandton during this time, avoid it. large groups

Businesses in this sector should seriously consider closing their businesses and inform employees, contractors, and customers that they will be denied access to the facility because of a scene. clear and current warning of the danger that could lead to violence and/or disorder.

Clearly and promptly notify all your employees, contractors, and clients/clients of your intent to close, the length of time you will be closing, and instructions to ensure employees, contractors, and visitors Items can be returned safely as you decide.

If work continues, insist on virtual meetings to minimize travel during this period.

Continuously monitor social media platforms and news feeds to update and adjust your risk strategies accordingly.

Always be aware of fake news! Do not post unverified news and advise employees to be careful about what they share.

Make sure your crisis communication plan is up to date and active.

Make sure all employees know the company’s safety and emergency plans.

If you find yourself in Sandton and surrounding areas, be alert for any unusual activity and stay home.

Make sure you have up-to-date numbers for your security services and medical response units and test your alarm/panic system.

For businesses, make sure your corporate/security team is briefed and properly prepared and familiar with and testing their emergency and crisis response plans.

Ramaphosa responds to US terror warning