Mangaung Metro Municipality has strongly dismissed rumors claiming that foreign nationals are plotting to poison local dams and reservoirs, following violent protests and looting in Bloemfontein. The unrest erupted on Thursday, 7 November, after 47 pupils from Ihobe Primary School were hospitalized due to suspected food poisoning from expired biscuits and chocolates. The protests, which also saw a child from Toka Primary School fall ill, led to widespread looting of foreign-owned shops.
Authorities confirmed that some spaza shop owners fled with their stock, while others abandoned their businesses in fear for their safety. In response to the unrest, Mangaung Mayor Gregory Nthatisi addressed the circulating allegations, urging calm and emphasizing that investigations into the food poisoning incident would be based on facts. “We want to assure residents that our reservoirs and dams are well-protected,” Nthatisi stated, dismissing the voice note spreading panic over alleged contamination.
The police have arrested 29 individuals involved in the violence, with charges of public violence. The suspects are set to appear in court on Monday, 11 November. Local authorities continue to work towards restoring order and addressing community concerns in a calm and measured manner.
