Police say hoax stories on social media spark xenophobic attacks

Police say they have been asked to intensify their communications with regard to fake news on social media, where allegations were made of abductions in various parts of the province. Police would like to stress that there are a lot of fake stories in this regard and people should not believe what they get over social media.

Any real incidents will be confirmed by SAPS in the media or on official SAPS social media accounts.

False social media reports surfaced recently alleging that foreign nationals had been responsible for the kidnap of children.

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These reports were investigated and found to be false.

The current situation in the Durban area, where foreign nationals are being targeted, is said to stem from these false reports.

“We would appreciate it if you could help address this situation of misinformation on social media platforms,” said Captain Charmaine Struwig (Communication, Liaison and Marketing in the Ladysmith region).

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