Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia says government is fully prepared to maintain peace and stability ahead of anticipated developments linked to 30 June (March of March anti-immigration protest National Shutdown). Speaking after a high-level security briefing, Cachalia confirmed that police have intensified operational readiness across all provinces, with increased deployments aimed at protecting communities, public spaces and critical infrastructure.
He said while peaceful protest will be respected and protected, any criminal conduct will be met with firm action.
“Criminality, intimidation, incitement, the destruction of property, and any attempt to undermine public safety will not be tolerated. The rule of law will indeed prevail,” said Cachalia. He added that if necessary, the South African Police Service may request support from the South African National Defence Force to strengthen operations.
Acting National Police Commissioner Puleng Dimpane said detailed plans are in place to maintain law and order amid rising tensions linked to anti-immigration campaigns and calls for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country by 30 June.
Dimpane said SAPS is working to ensure that all demonstrations are managed safely and remain within the law, warning that unlawful activities will not be tolerated.
Cachalia met senior SAPS leadership over the weekend, where he was briefed on national operational strategies designed to ensure public safety and prevent disruption as tensions continue to grow in parts of the country.
VOC News
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