Presidency 'notes' terror alert by US Embassy in SA
Government says it would be the first to alert the country
to any potential terror threats.
It was responding to an alert issued by the US Embassy on Wednesday, warning of a possible terror attack in Sandton this weekend.
The US government says it received information that terrorists may be planning on targeting large gatherings in the city on Saturday.
The embassy says it doesn't have more information on the timing or method of the potential attack, but advised staff to avoid crowds of people and other large public gatherings in the greater Sandton area this weekend.
Hours after this alert, the Presidency issued a statement which appears to underplay concerns.
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"The government has noted the terror alert issued by the US embassy on its website," said spokesperson Vincent Magwenya.
"This is part of the US government's standard communication to its citizens. It is the responsibility of the South African military forces to ensure that all people in our country are safe. Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor any threats to our citizens, nation and our sovereignty."
Johannesburg's annual gay pride event is scheduled to take place in Sandton on Saturday.
