Update:
The bomb threat has been declared a false alarm after authorities searched the aircraft and luggage and found no explosives.
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brig Nobuntu Gantana said that bomb disposal specialists and explosive detection dogs were dispatched to the scene.
No explosives, explosive devices, suspicious objects, or hazardous materials were found. The scene was declared safe and handed over to airport security.
The bomb threat, which came in the form of an anonymous phone call, has been declared a hoax, and an investigation is underway to trace the caller.
Gantana warned that a false bomb threat is a serious criminal offence that can land a person in prison for up to 10 years.
Police have been deployed to King Phalo Airport in KuGompo City (formerly East London) in the Eastern Cape today following an alleged bomb threat.
A plane carrying 184 passengers landed at the airport on Wednesday, 21 October 2026 after a bomb threat was made by an unknown caller.
According to Police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, the threat was reported through a telephone call from an unknown person using a private number.
Gantana said that all 184 passengers on board the flight have safely disembarked.
The aircraft has been grounded at the airport while the authorities investigate the alleged threat.
“A multi-disciplinary response team has been activated and is on scene. This includes a bomb disposal unit, K9 explosive detection dogs, hostage negotiators, disaster management, airport security, and emergency medical services.
“The scene is being managed by the relevant authorities, and investigations into the origin of the threat are ongoing.”
The SAPS said no further information is available at this stage.
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