The City of Tshwane condemns the loss of lives and damage to municipal infrastructure following incidents involving water fights, Tshwane Bus Services damage and blocking roads for motorists that took place on 1 September 2026.
The celebrations turned deadly in Cullinan, Region 5, where a 21-year-old man was reportedly stabbed to death by a 53-year-old man after water was poured on him.
Tshwane also experienced high water consumption and water loss during these activities. Bus passengers, drivers and other road users were placed under serious risk. Two Tshwane Bus Services buses were attacked in Lotus Gardens and Danville. In Lotus Gardens, a group of young people allegedly blocked a road, verbally abused the driver and demanded that the doors of the West Park 7/8 bus be opened. Some individuals later climbed onto the roof, causing damage.
In Danville, another group poured water on a bus, threw buckets at the vehicle and shattered one of its side windows with a stone.
Damage to municipal property is a criminal offence, and the City will work with law enforcement authorities to hold those responsible accountable. The unnecessary use of treated water during water fights places additional pressure on the City's water resources, while water running onto roads can create slippery and dangerous conditions for motorists and pedestrians.
Other isolated incidents involving reckless behaviour, blocked roads and minor clashes reported across Tshwane townships as traditional water fights allegedly went beyond celebration and resulted in dangerous situations.