Pretoria: Chairperson of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures (Natjoints), Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, announced that law enforcement agencies are prepared to respond to any criminal activities swiftly and decisively, while remaining within the legal framework. This statement comes in light of the planned protests against undocumented immigration set to take place on June 30.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mosikili emphasized that law enforcement agencies, including the Natjoints, Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures, and all operational command centers, are operating around the clock. First responders are fully deployed across all nine provinces, and Public Order Policing units are positioned to manage public gatherings and any emerging incidents.
Mosikili assured that specialized operational units are ready to respond immediately, with intelligence structures providing real-time updates to guide swift decision-making. She reiterated that the government is prepared to ensure the safety and protection of peaceful demonstrations and communities, while safeguarding critical infrastructure and maintaining public order.
Mosikili cautioned those intending to break the law not to test the State's resolve. She affirmed that the safety of every South African is a priority and that contingency plans, including aerial surveillance by the Air Wing, are in place to support operations as needed.
Highlighting the distinction between exercising democratic rights and committing criminal acts, Mosikili warned that anyone crossing that line will face immediate legal consequences. She declared that no individual or group would be allowed to undermine the authority of the State, intimidate communities, or disrupt the economy. Dangerous weapons, including firearms and knives, will not be permitted, and decisive action will be taken against any lawless acts during the demonstrations.
Regarding arrests, Mosikili reported that from March 1 to date, 103 cases have been registered with 195 suspects arrested across various provinces. In KwaZulu Natal, 39 cases resulted in 11 arrests; in the Eastern Cape, 12 cases led to 9 arrests; the Free State reported 29 cases with 153 arrests; the Western Cape saw 15 cases with 14 arrests; Gauteng registered 4 cases with 5 arrests; and Mpumalanga recorded 3 cases with 3 arrests.
The leader of the Abahambe protests, Simphiwe James Bonile, remains in custody following his arrest in May in the Western Cape. Additionally, over 25,000 foreign nationals have been repatriated, with buses transporting them under strict law enforcement escort and verification checkpoints ensuring compliance with legal processes.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his weekly newsletter, reaffirmed the constitutional right to protest, while emphasizing that it does not permit threats, intimidation, vandalism, or violence.