Mthatha: Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has strongly condemned the threats and intimidation directed at humanitarian organisation, Gift of the Givers, while they were delivering lifesaving assistance to flood-affected communities in Mthatha, Eastern Cape. It is alleged that members of a so-called ‘water mafia’, linked to service providers contracted by the OR Tambo District Municipality, threatened Gift of the Givers staff as they distributed clean drinking water to residents impacted by the recent floods.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mchunu was in Mthatha this past weekend to engage with and thank members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) for their efforts during the floods, which have claimed 90 lives to date and displaced hundreds more. The Minister also addressed some of the affected families.
‘The police will not tolerate any attempt to intimidate or obstruct those who are working tirelessly to save lives and bring relief to our people. Gift of the Givers has consistently been a source of hope and dignity to South Africans in their hour of need. Any attack on them is an attack on the very principle of ubuntu. No individual or group will be allowed to profiteer off disaster or compromise the safety and well-being of our people. Law enforcement will act decisively. The SAPS will ensure the safety of all humanitarian workers in the area, and hold those responsible fully accountable under the law. We have also been made aware of individuals who go to the homes of those who lost their lives due to these floods, with a view to commit acts of theft from these homes. Police have been deployed to ensure the safety of the property of the deceased,’ Mchunu said.
The provincial government said plans are underway to hold a Provincial Day of Mourning on Thursday, 19 June 2025, in Decoligny Village, Mthatha. Residents have been urged to report persons who went missing in the areas that were affected by the floods to law enforcement.
President Cyril Ramaphosa visited the area last Friday to offer support and assess the damage. He was accompanied by government officials, key Ministers, the Premier, and local government representatives.