The OR Tambo District Municipality has strongly condemned alleged “water mafia” groups in Mthatha who reportedly attempted to disrupt critical flood relief operations. The municipality issued a statement following an incident where aid organization Gift of the Givers was intimidated while distributing essential supplies to flood victims.
Threats Against Humanitarian Efforts
On Saturday, Gift of the Givers teams filling water trucks at a municipal treatment plant were confronted by individuals in two vehicles, including a black Toyota Fortuner. The men allegedly ordered the aid workers to leave, warning that they were “not wanted” in the area.
Ali Sablay, a representative from Gift of the Givers, explained that the intimidation appeared to stem from local water suppliers who profit from selling water during crises.
“These individuals were upset because we are providing water for free,” Sablay said. “They are used to being paid by the municipality, and our free services disrupted their business.”
Community and Authorities Rally Behind Aid Workers
Following the threats, local authorities and community members swiftly mobilized to protect the relief efforts. The South African Police Service (SAPS) deployed officers to escort Gift of the Givers trucks, while residents offered to guard the vehicles.
The OR Tambo District Municipality denounced the intimidation, calling it “a moral betrayal of the highest order.”
“To prey on a crisis is to turn pain into profit,” the municipality stated. “It is merciless and will not be tolerated. We are a community that rebuilds, shares, and rises together.”
Despite the threats, Gift of the Givers has chosen not to open a police case, focusing instead on continuing their aid operations. The organization has been providing water to hospitals, forensic units, and displaced families following devastating floods that claimed at least 90 lives in the region.
Ongoing Relief Efforts Amid Crisis
The Eastern Cape has been grappling with severe flooding, which damaged water infrastructure, leaving Mthatha without a stable supply. Gift of the Givers has stepped in to assist, but the incident highlights the challenges faced by humanitarian groups in conflict-ridden disaster zones.
Sablay commended the swift response from law enforcement and the community, ensuring that aid reaches those most in need.
“The support has been phenomenal,” he said. “We will not let criminal elements stop us from helping people during this critical time.”
As recovery efforts continue, authorities have vowed to clamp down on any further attempts to exploit the crisis. The incident has sparked broader discussions about corruption and profiteering in disaster-stricken areas, with calls for stronger measures to protect relief workers.
