Three people were killed and approximately 55 shacks destroyed during sporadic violence in the KwaNonqaba area of Mossel Bay over the weekend of May 29–31, 2026, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
On Friday, May 29, George Public Order Police, supported by local police units, responded to outbreaks of violence in the Asla Park informal settlement. A group of individuals allegedly set fire to roughly 55 shacks. Police, alongside local fire services and disaster management teams, intervened to quell the unrest, which resulted in the displacement of multiple residents.
In the early hours of Saturday, May 30, police were called to a scene in the area where the body of a 27-year-old man was discovered with multiple injuries. Shortly thereafter, a second man, aged 43, was declared dead on arrival at a local hospital with assault-related injuries. Authorities confirmed both deceased men were Mozambican nationals. Investigations into the two murders remain ongoing, and no arrests have been made in connection with these deaths.
In a separate incident at approximately 03:00 on Sunday, May 31, KwaNonqaba police responded to the New Rest informal settlement, where the body of an 18-year-old South African male was found in front of a shack. The victim had sustained stab wounds and was declared dead by paramedics at 03:19. Detectives are actively pursuing a known suspect in this case.
Five suspects have been arrested in connection with the broader unrest. Two individuals were charged with public violence and appeared in court on Monday, where they were each granted bail of R1,000. Three additional suspects are scheduled to appear in the Mossel Bay Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday on charges related to the possession of presumed stolen property.
SAPS reiterated that while citizens retain the right to protest, such actions must remain within legal boundaries. The service emphasized that police will act decisively against individuals who engage in or incite violence during demonstrations.
Authorities also urged community members and local leaders to refrain from sharing unverified information, noting that misinformation can fuel unnecessary panic and anxiety.
Police deployments remain heightened in the KwaNonqaba area to maintain stability. No further incidents have been reported since Monday.
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