The South African Police Service (SAPS) says it is fully prepared for the planned demonstrations scheduled for 30 June, warning that criminality, violence and attempts to destabilise the country will not be tolerated.
Speaking after an engagement between SAPS, the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) and representatives of private security companies on Wednesday, Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said authorities had intensified preparations to ensure public safety and prevent a repeat of the widespread unrest experienced in July 2021.
The meeting, chaired by Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia, was also attended virtually by Deputy Ministers of Police Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale, as well as PSIRA Chief Executive Officer Manabela Chauke.
Dimpane said security stakeholders were now only days away from the planned demonstrations and that coordination among law enforcement agencies, intelligence structures and private security companies was essential.
She said lessons learnt from the July 2021 unrest had highlighted weaknesses in communication, early warning systems and collaboration between security role players, prompting authorities to adopt a more integrated approach.
“The events of July 2021 exposed several challenges, including gaps in coordination, shortcomings in communication, limitations in early warning systems and insufficient collaboration between various stakeholders responsible for safety and security,” Dimpane said.
According to SAPS, extensive planning has been undertaken at national, provincial and local levels, with operational plans finalised, resources mobilised and communication channels strengthened between SAPS, PSIRA, private security companies and other stakeholders.
Authorities stressed that while lawful and peaceful demonstrations would be protected in accordance with the Constitution, any acts of violence, intimidation, looting, destruction of property, attacks on businesses or attempts to undermine public order would be met with decisive action.
Dimpane warned individuals seeking to exploit demonstrations to commit criminal acts that law enforcement agencies were ready to respond within the confines of the law to maintain public order and protect lives and property.
She described the private security industry as a critical partner in crime prevention, noting that hundreds of thousands of security officers deployed across the country, together with advanced technology and operational resources, serve as an important force multiplier for law enforcement.
Private security companies have pledged personnel, equipment, technology and expertise to support SAPS operational plans and enhance situational awareness during the demonstrations.
Dimpane also reminded foreign nationals residing in South Africa to ensure that they possess valid documentation.
“Together, we will continue to protect our communities. Together, we will continue to safeguard our economy. Together, we will continue to uphold the rule of law,” she said, expressing confidence that coordinated efforts would ensure that 30 June remains “a day of peace, stability and safety for all who live in South Africa.”