Police in the Eastern Cape are attending the scene of a violent protest in KuGompo, East London, on 30 March 2026.
The protest began as a planned peaceful demonstration by traditional leaders opposing the alleged coronation of an Igbo king. Violence ensued after some participants moved away from the city hall, where a petition was being handed over.
Authorities have confirmed that ten vehicles were damaged and one building in the North End business area was partially set on fire. The area is home to a mix of foreign nationals, predominantly from Somalia and Pakistan.
No injuries have been reported, and no arrests have been made.
Emergency services, including the fire department, remain on the scene. Deployed personnel include SAPS Visible Policing members, the Public Order Policing (POP) Unit, Buffalo City Metropolitan (BCM) Traffic officers, and BCM Law Enforcement officers. The POP Unit remains on site.