As protest action continues in various parts of Northern KwaZulu-Natal, and threats of a national shutdown circulate via social media, the Newcastle Community Policing Forum has issued a notice, warning Newcastillians to avoid panicking.
With calls of a national shutdown running rampant, the Newcastle CPF emphasised, “The public is advised by the SAPS to remain calm and not forward messages willy nilly regarding unrest via social media, as this creates unnecessary panic within communities.”
Also, the CPF encouraged residents to keep updated using official reputable news channels and releases by the SAPS and its subsidiaries.
“The national shutdown has been caused by the public’s view of a lack of service delivery by various government departments, as well as rising costs of living, and stagnant economy,” the Newcastle CPF noted.
Earlier this month, police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, explained to Newcastillian News that the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) had noted various social media posts and messages on the planned shutdown.
At the time, Brigadier Mathe emphasised that while no shutdown was confirmed, law enforcement was closely monitoring the situation.
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With the CPF assuring that the situation is under control, it reiterated, “There is no need to panic. There is no need for flooding social media platforms with fake and unconfirmed reports.”
As law enforcement calls for calm we are reminded that the more we indulge in idiocy on social media, the more our world will feel upside down.
Therefore, as always, Newcastillian News will keep you updated on actual events and the news in your world you need to know about.
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