Pretoria: The government has announced that 30 June 2026 will proceed as a normal working day, emphasizing that any acts of intimidation, violence, or disruption will face strict legal consequences. This statement was made by the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration during a media briefing in Pretoria, following their regular meeting to evaluate the government's measures against irregular migration.
According to South African Government News Agency, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamaloko Kubayi, declared that enforcement of the law is a state responsibility, assuring protection for both citizens and foreign nationals against abuse and intimidation. The IMC highlighted the illegality of unauthorized individuals demanding documentation or proof of nationality and blocking access to public services such as schools and hospitals.
Minister Kubayi also issued a stern warning against violence, intimidation, vigilantism, xenophobia, hate speech, and the spread of misinformation, including fake news on social media. Law enforcement agencies have intensified intelligence-driven operations nationwide in light of rising public tensions. By 21 June, 89 public order and incitement-related incidents had been registered as criminal cases, an increase from 53 the previous week.
Authorities have arrested 164 individuals for offenses including incitement to violence and violations of the Regulation of Gatherings Act, with 36 cases already proceeding in court. Additionally, the South African Police Service apprehended over 5,000 individuals for immigration-related violations during Operation Shanela in the week ending 15 June.
The Minister condemned recent anti-immigration protests accompanied by looting in parts of the Free State, emphasizing that vigilantism and nationality-based attacks constitute criminal acts. The government is engaging with social media platforms to address content related to 30 June, following the circulation of manipulated videos and images allegedly aimed at inciting violence and damaging the country's international standing.
Kubayi reiterated that while the Constitution protects freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, these rights do not include inciting violence or advocating hatred. The IMC urged South Africans not to let legitimate concerns about illegal migration be exploited by those seeking to incite violence or destabilize the nation.
"We repeat that the 30th of June 2026 will be a normal day for the country, economic and social activities will not be disrupted," Kubayi stated.