06/06/2026
Over the past week, Mossel Bay has faced one of the most challenging periods in our recent history. Following the unrest and xenophobic attacks that affected many vulnerable people, our municipality, together with law enforcement, emergency services and provincial government, worked around the clock to restore calm, maintain public safety and ensure that those affected were treated with dignity and humanity.
This morning, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr Ivan Meyer, visited Mossel Bay as further buses departed the town. At the Joint Operations Centre, Major General Thembisile Cetyana briefed the Minister on the current situation and the coordinated efforts undertaken by all role players to stabilise the area.
I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Mayoral Committee Member, Cllr Leon van Dyk, who strengthened my hands throughout this difficult week and provided unwavering support during a time of immense pressure. His leadership and counsel were invaluable.
My gratitude also goes to Municipal Manager Colin Puren, our administration, emergency services personnel, law enforcement officers, volunteers and all supporting agencies who worked tirelessly to manage this situation in a humane, professional and compassionate manner. While the circumstances were difficult, our teams remained committed to protecting lives, maintaining order and ensuring that every person affected was treated with dignity and respect.
Mossel Bay has always been a community that values the rule of law, human dignity and mutual respect. As we move forward, we remain committed to restoring stability, supporting affected communities and ensuring that our town remains a place where peace, safety and lawful conduct prevail.
Thank you to every individual who contributed to these efforts. Your dedication has made a difference when it was needed most.
