Update:
SAPS have completed their search of the Rooi Plein and the rest of the university grounds, and have found nothing.
They have declared all facilities safe. Students and visitors are permitted to enter all facilities and continue with the day’s activities.
Students at Stellenbosch University, as well as Open Day visitors, were advised to evacuate the Rooi Plein today due to a bomb threat.
Students have shared footage of the Rooi Plein on social media. A message was also sent to members of an all girls PSO at the university, which reads: ‘IMPORTANT: There is currently a bomb threat on campus. The Neelsie and Rooiplein are being evacuated. Please stay off campus today until we hear news. Stay safe.’
The university released a statement onfirming the incident. ‘Stellenbosch University (SU) can confirm that the Neelsie student centre, library and Rooiplein was evacuated on Saturday morning following a bomb threat.
‘The safety of our campus community is as always of paramount importance and swift action ensued in accordance with standard emergency protocols. Emergency services are in the process of scouring the areas and we are appreciative as always of their efficient service.’
A response from the South African Police Service (SAPS) is pending.
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