The audio clip, which warned residents of water shortages and halted waste collection, caused widespread panic, urging people to stock up on water, claiming no services, including grave digging, would be attended to until further notice.

Mangaung Metro spokesperson, Qondile Khedama, labeled the circulating audio clip as misleading and harmful, confirming the claims are false.

“We have noted with concern the false information that has been circulating. The clip is causing unnecessary alarm in the community, but I want to assure residents that it is not accurate.” Khedama said any legitimate interruptions in services, particularly water supply, would be communicated by the city as per standard protocol.

Mangaung Metro spokesperson, Qondile Khedama. Photo: Bloemfontein Courant

“The origin of the audio clip remains unknown, and efforts to trace the individual responsible are underway through the city’s head of Public Safety," he said.

Residents collecting water from tankers. Photo supplied

Khedama urged residents to disregard unofficial communications from unknown sources and rely only on verified information from the municipality.

Yesterday, the metro informed residents of a temporary water supply interruption due to a 450mm OD bulk pipe burst. The affected areas included Bergman Square, Grassland, Freedom Square, Bloemspruit Plots, and Phases 4 and 5. Technical teams were swiftly dispatched to the scene, with water expected to be restored within 24 hours.

Khedama further emphasised the importance of refraining from sharing false information, as it causes undue stress and inconvenience for the public.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg