CRIME SCENE: Mossel Bay, Southern Cape: The police remain on high alert in the area to restore calm and order.

This follows the arrest of five people after violence broke out in KwaNonqaba, Mossel Bay on Friday, 29 May 2026.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Western Cape said in a statement the George Public Order unit, supported by local police, responded on Friday to sporadic scenes of violence, during which about 55 shacks were allegedly set alight in the Asla Park informal settlement, in KwaNonqaba.

The police deployments, together with local fire services and disaster management teams, quelled the situation, which resulted in the displacement of a number of people.

“In the early hours of Saturday morning, the body of a 27-year-old man was discovered with multiple injuries. Shortly thereafter, another man with assault injuries was declared dead on arrival at a local hospital. The two deceased men, aged 27 and 43, were Mozambican nationals. No arrests have made in connection with these two murders.

“In a separate incident, at approximately 03:00 on Sunday morning, 31 May 2026, KwaNonqaba police were called to the New Rest informal settlement, where the body of an 18-year-old South African man was discovered. The deceased had sustained stab wounds.

“Investigations into this murder are progressing, with detectives searching for a known suspect,” the statement said.

The police said two people were arrested and charged with public violence. They were released on R1000 bail each after appearing in court on Monday. Three more suspects are facing charges relating to the possession of presumed stolen property.

“The SAPS respects the right of citizens to protest. However, those who embark on such action are urged to do so within the confines of the law. When marchers or protesters engage in violent acts, including the incitement of violence, police will not hesitate to act decisively.

“A further plea is made to community members and leaders to refrain from disseminating unverified information, as this causes unnecessary panic and anxiety.

“No further incidents have been reported in the area since Monday,” said the police statement.