The Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison (DCSSL) has issued an urgent plea to residents living downstream of the Senteeko Dam, calling for immediate evacuation as fears of a structural collapse mount.

The evacuation order follows a critical warning from the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), indicating that the dam’s integrity is severely compromised.

Despite the looming danger, many residents remain in their homes, hesitant to leave. DCSSL spokesperson Moeti Mmusi said the department has received reports of individuals refusing to evacuate due to a lack of alternative accommodation and deep-seated fears about local crime.

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“We have received reports that there are people who do not want to evacuate because they do not have anywhere to go, or they are afraid that zama zamas will steal their belongings,” said Mmusi.

He added that the DCSSL has stressed that the risk of staying far outweighs the risk of property loss. The primary focus for now is preventing loss of life should the dam wall fail.

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“For the sake of their safety, we are asking residents to comply with the evacuation order from the DWS. They need to leave the area before the dam collapses,” Mmusi said.

Meanwhile, Ehlanzeni District Municipality spokesperson Lucky Ngomane, whose office is responsible for disaster management in the area, confirmed that there are currently no arrangements in place to accommodate the displaced residents.