US travelers to South Africa reassured of safety

In the wake of a security alert issued by the US Embassy on 4 June 2016, warning US citizens of possible terror attacks in South Africa, Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom has reassured travelers of their safety.

Minister Hanekom said he is confident that South Africa’s security services remain vigilant and are doing everything within their power to keep all areas of the country safe.

“The alerts issued periodically by other governments to their citizens around the world as a standard precautionary measure have been noted,” said Minister Hanekom.

“We can understand that alerts of this nature may cause anxiety and fear amongst some travelers and members of the trade who want to advise their clients responsibly. Tourists to South Africa should be aware that our security services are working with their counterparts in countries around the world on these concerns, and are liaising closely with our business community to secure the safety of our citizens and visitors.”

State Security Minister David Mahlobo said in a statement on the US alert: “We remain a strong and stable democratic country and there is no immediate danger posed by the alert”.

Here are further statements that have been issued in light of the terror alert…

Statement from Cape Town Tourism

We assure visitors and all other interested parties that our local law enforcement, intelligence, and security agencies provide world-class safety measures when it comes to the protection of citizens and visitors alike.

All threats to security in Cape Town and South Africa are assessed by the South African Police Services (SAPS) and intelligence agencies in order to deploy appropriate resources and take necessary action.

We would like to encourage locals and visitors to be vigilant at all times, especially in public places and on transportation; crime in all its forms is an unfortunate reality in any big city destination.

We wish all of our visitors well and our Muslim friends a peaceful Ramadan.

Statement from Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

The Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront security team meets regularly and co-operates with the SAPS, national and regional intelligence. In response to the notification of a threat, SAPS has increased its presence and vigilance at the V&A Waterfront.