A spokes person of the South African Police Service (SAPS) has dismissed claims that there had been a bomb threat at Loftus Versfeld Stadium ahead of the African Football League, after onlookers mistook a pryotechnician for someone with bad intentions.
The fake news spread like wildfire on social media after images and videos of a man, who allegedly “planted a bomb” at Loftus Stadium were shared on social media on Sunday.
However, SAPS spokes person Athlenda Mathe dismissed those claims on Sunday.
“The person in this video and picture is a service provider who was contracted to supply & display pryotechnics (fireworks) displays at the end of the game. In this video, he is accompanied by SAPS officers as he is busy setting these devices up,” Mathe stated on X (formerly twitter).
Starburst Pyro, the contracted company for the fireworks, also took to social media to dismiss the wild claims.
“It has come to our attention that spectators, whom attended the African Football League Finals match between Mamelodi Sundowns FC and Wydad Casablanca at Loftus Stadium, has posted some fake news,” read the statement.
“Starburst Pyrotechnics, a professional Pyrotechnics and Fireworks Display company, was appointed by the management of the league to shoot Pyrotechnics and confetti for the winner of the finals.
“Unfortunately, individuals are postimg without applying common sense nor verifying information with the correct authorities before posting on social media. All permits were issued and all safety and police authorities were notified.
“The authorities were notified and they explained to the individuals but unfortunately, even after this fact they have not removed the post from their social accounts.
“And with a little common sense applied, i’m sure anyone would know that a real terrorists would want to hide bombs.
“I hope after this incident, more of the public know what professional pyrotechnics looks like and hopefully spread more publicity for the industry and less fake news.
“Lastly we hope everyone enjoyed the spectacular match and congratulations to Mamelodi Sundowns for winning!”
