30 October, 2002

Press Release

The city of Johannesburg learned with horror of several explosives that went off in Soweto last night claiming a resident's life and injuring another. We condemn in the strongest terms these ghastly acts of cowardice and we will do everything in our power to assist the security forces.

The City of Johannesburg calls upon all residents and in particular those of Soweto to remain calm. Measures are in place to ensure that there will be no disruptions of municipal services. Water and electricity provision to Soweto areas will not be affected. The National, Provincial and local security agencies are all working closely together and we are confident that the situation is under control.

The executive Mayor visited areas in Soweto this morning to inspect the damage and express support to local communities. He will also be participating in a joint press briefing with the Ministers of Justice, Safety and Security and Intelligence at Protea Police Station later this morning.

Also, earlier this morning, the City dispatched 26 busses to Soweto to assist stranded commuters on all affected railway stations with Metro Rail tickets. There are 20 busses departing from Naledi picking up commuter from all stations in that railway line, and six others from Crowne Station. These buses will ferry commuters to the City where further transport can be found. For more information commuters can contact Metro Bus on 011 403 4300/1. Any other matter can be referred to our call centre at 375 5555.

On behalf of the City, we express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and we wish a speedy recovery to the injured.

For more information contact Kgotso Chikane
Kgotso Chikane
Spokesperson for the Executive Mayor
Tel: (011) 407-7558
Fax: (011) 339-5704
Cell: 082 464 9446
Email: kgotsoc@joburg.org.za