King Phalo bomb threat a hoax: why the caller could get 10 years
Photo: Vysotsky, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The bomb threat at King Phalo Airport in KuGompo City on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, was a false alarm. Police searched the aircraft and the luggage and found no explosives, devices or hazardous materials (IOL).
Everyone on board got off safely, and the scene was handed back to airport security. SAPS has opened a criminal case and is trying to trace the person who made the call (IOL).
Last updated: 21 October 2026, 17:32 SAST.
What happened at King Phalo Airport?
An unknown caller phoned the airport's passenger information desk and claimed there was a bomb on a commercial aircraft. The airport alerted SAPS (IOL). The flight had come in from Johannesburg and was held on the ground under standard security protocols (NovaNews).
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said all passengers, pilots and cabin crew disembarked safely (IOL). Earlier police figures put the number on board at 184 (NovaNews).
Who responded?
SAPS sent a multi-disciplinary team. It included the Bomb Disposal Unit, K9 explosive detection dogs, airport security, a hostage negotiator, the fire department and emergency medical services (IOL). The KuGompo Explosives Unit ran a systematic search of the aircraft and the bags.
"The scene was declared all clear and handed back to airport security," Gantana said (IOL).
Were flights cancelled?
The airport stayed open while the threat was handled. Its information centre said flights were still arriving and departing, and that it had not been told of any cancellations (NovaNews). If you are flying from King Phalo in the next few days, check your booking with your airline as usual.
What is the penalty for a fake bomb threat?
Up to ten years in prison. Police registered the case under section 27(1A)(a) of the Explosives Act of 1956, and Gantana said a false bomb threat is "a serious criminal offence" (IOL).
Police have asked the public not to speculate about the incident while the investigation continues, and said no more details would be released for now (IOL).
FAQ
Was there a bomb at King Phalo Airport?
No. Police searched the aircraft and luggage on 21 October 2026 and found no explosives, explosive devices, suspicious objects or hazardous materials. The threat was declared a false alarm.
Was King Phalo Airport closed?
No. The airport said it was not closed and that flights continued to arrive and depart while the threat was handled.
Was anyone hurt?
No injuries were reported. Police said all passengers, pilots and cabin crew disembarked safely.
What is the punishment for a false bomb threat in South Africa?
SAPS says it is a serious criminal offence carrying a potential sentence of up to ten years in prison. This case was registered under section 27(1A)(a) of the Explosives Act of 1956.