Social Worker Stabbed at Mthatha Government Offices.

Eastern Cape Social Development MEC Bukiwe Fanta has condemned an attack on a social worker who was seriously injured after allegedly being stabbed by a woman at the KSD offices in Mthatha.

In a statement issued on Monday, 12 October 2026, the Department of Social Development said the incident had caused distress among employees and members of the public.

Fanta described the attack as unacceptable, stressing that social workers should be able to perform their duties without fear of violence.

The Department confirmed that the suspect was arrested immediately following the incident and said it would cooperate with authorities during the investigation.

Following the attack, the Department is working with the Department of Public Works to urgently review security arrangements at the offices.

Proposed measures include improved access control, visitor management procedures and additional security interventions.

The Department has also made psychosocial support available to affected employees.

Fanta extended her support to the injured social worker, her family and colleagues, while thanking emergency personnel and law-enforcement officials for their response.

The Department did not disclose further details about the worker’s injuries or the circumstances surrounding the attack.