A fatal shark attack at Orient Beach in KuGompo City has prompted Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality to close two beaches and warn the public to stay out of the water until further notice.
The municipality confirmed the incident in an official public notice issued on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, following the attack earlier that morning.
According to the municipality, Orient Beach and Eastern Beach have been closed until further notice. The decision follows the serious incident reported at Orient Beach.
The municipality also confirmed that a shark attack had occurred and that the relevant authorities were at the scene attending to the matter.
Municipality Issues Beach Safety Warning
Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality has urged beachgoers to exercise extreme caution and avoid entering the water at the affected beaches.
The municipality has also issued warnings at other beaches, asking members of the public to remain vigilant, follow safety advisories and comply with instructions from the relevant authorities.
No reopening date has been announced for the two closed beaches.
Police Investigate Woman’s Death
A 65-year-old woman reportedly died following the shark attack at Orient Beach on Tuesday morning.
Police have opened an inquest to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death. Further details about the attack and the type of shark involved have not been confirmed in the municipality’s public notice.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of people who swim and participate in other activities along the Eastern Cape coastline.
Public Urged to Follow Official Warnings
Residents and visitors planning to visit beaches in KuGompo City are urged to pay attention to official safety announcements and obey instructions from the relevant authorities.
The municipality says further updates will be communicated as more information becomes available.
ECNewsLive will continue to follow developments concerning the investigation and the reopening of the affected beaches.
