Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said police have identified several hotspots across the country ahead of next week’s planned anti-illegal migration protests.
The demonstrations are set for June 30, with some activist groups calling on undocumented foreign nationals to leave South Africa by that date.
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While Cachalia confirmed that several potential hotspots have been identified, he declined to reveal their locations.
He said intelligence is being monitored continuously and law enforcement agencies are preparing for any eventuality.
Cachalia added that leave applications from police officers have been suspended as part of a nationwide operation aimed at ensuring law and order during the protests.
While the South African army will not be deployed, Cachalia said the military is on standby and could be called in to protect critical infrastructure if necessary.
“We are going to do everything to ensure that June 30 is a normal day. A normal day could include protest action, but it does not include violence.”
Cachalia has assured South Africans that security forces are fully prepared and ready to respond to any threats to public safety.
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Cachalia said security has been stepped up in parts of the Western Cape, following recent violent protests targeting foreign nationals.
Last month, two Mozambican nationals were killed during anti-migrant protests in the Asla Park informal settlement in Mossel Bay.
Violence also broke out in the Overberg region, where hundreds of residents fled their homes amid unrest in Kleinmond and Gansbaai.
“Hotspots are across the province, and a lot of the protest action has taken place in the rural areas. Police are ready across the province. There were about four areas in the rural areas that were identified.”
Meanwhile, there is no indication of planned protests in Cape Town.
However, the City’s Safety and Security MMC, JP Smith, said authorities are monitoring threats circulating on social media relating to xenophobia and a proposed shutdown on 30 June.
“The city has adopted a precautionary approach. We remain committed to maintaining stability and minimising any potential disruption, particularly given the importance of protecting Cape Town’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination.”
Smith said any unlawful conduct, including intimidation, will be dealt with decisively.