The Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) has strongly condemned an incident in which a member of the public allegedly threatened a senior departmental official during a confrontation at its Buffalo City District Office.
According to the department, the incident occurred on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, at approximately 11:45 a.m., when three members of the public, led by Mr. Schalk van der Sandt, arrived at the district office without an appointment to raise concerns about electricity outages affecting DPWI-owned properties adjacent to the office. The power cuts had also disrupted operations at the department’s offices.
The department said that during discussions with officials, the situation escalated when Mr. van der Sandt allegedly became aggressive towards the Deputy Director for Immovable Asset Management, Mr. Mzuvukile Kweba. He reportedly pointed his finger at the official, accused him of racism, and used offensive language in front of staff members.
DPWI further alleges that Mr. van der Sandt threatened to shoot a senior manager during the confrontation. The incident was captured on video and has since circulated widely on social media.
Following the incident, Mr. Kweba opened a criminal case of intimidation and crimen injuria/defamation-related allegations at the Cambridge Police Station. The matter is now under investigation.
Head of Department Ms. Phucuka Penxa said the safety and well-being of employees remain the department’s highest priority.
“The physical safety and psychological well-being of our employees remain our absolute priority. We are working closely with the South African Police Service and our internal security personnel to ensure a swift and thorough investigation into the incident,” Penxa said.
She added that the department maintains a zero-tolerance approach to threats, harassment and intimidation against public servants.
“The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will at all times have zero tolerance for any form of harassment, threats or intimidation directed at our staff while they are performing their duties. Employees affected by this incident will receive the necessary trauma counselling and support.”
To strengthen workplace safety, the department said it is reviewing and enhancing security measures at its offices to help prevent similar incidents and ensure uninterrupted service delivery.
Police investigations into the matter are continuing.
No tags for this post.
