On 27 May 2024, five armed individuals attempted to break into Mthatha Airport (FAUT/UTT), located in Eastern Cape province. The assailants, who were wearing balaclavas, opened fire on police officers, injuring two of them. The officers returned fire and subsequently arrested the attackers. The airport was closed due to the event and resumed operations the following day. The attack occurred amid protest actions staged by taxi operators in the city, during which the N2 and R61 roads were blockaded. Protests reportedly broke out after police officers confiscated nearly 50 firearms from guards and taxi owners affiliated with the Border Alliance Taxi Association. The taxi operators ended their protests once the police returned the weapons to the group. Authorities suspect that protest-related violence may be connected to efforts to curb the presence of high-powered weapons in public areas.