Zanozuko Sigcau, the new king of the amaMpondo, is in hiding following an attempt on his life, Eastern Cape police said on Sunday.
Captain Mduduzi Godlwana said three men opened fire on the king’s homestead in Flagstaff on Wednesday, after a black BMW dropped them off near his home.
No one was injured in the attack and no arrests have been made.
The king’s family were under police guard.
Godlwana said the situation in the area was tense following the incident.
Sigcau was recognised as the legitimate king of the amaMpondo by the Nhlapo Commission in July. This made him senior to both the ailing Eastern Pondoland King Mpondombini Sigcau and Western Pondoland King Ndamase Ndamase.
President Jacob Zuma made the announcement as part of findings of the commission, which led to six of 12 traditional kingships in South Africa no longer being recognised once the respective incumbent monarchs had died.
The announcement raised concern and divided the Pondo people over their kingship.
Captain Godlwana said the police were monitoring the situation. – Sapa