Police assure South Africans of tight security measures ahead of 30 June

Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia has assured South Africans that law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to maintain peace, stability and the rule of law ahead of anticipated events on 30 June.

Addressing the media after a meeting of the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), Cachalia said government had reviewed its integrated operational plans and was satisfied that adequate security measures were in place across the country.

“We would like to assure you that government has taken extensive measures to ensure that the country remains safe and secure,” said Cachalia.

The minister welcomed the largely peaceful voter registration weekend, noting that there were no major disruptions at registration stations nationwide.

“This demonstrates the continued commitment of our people to participate in our democracy peacefully and responsibly,” he said.

Despite the successful registration process, Cachalia expressed concern over several criminal incidents recorded during the same period. A total of 12 incidents were reported nationally, including four murders, five cases involving alleged contraventions of the Electoral Act and three incidents of public violence. Six arrests were made in connection with assault, malicious damage to property and public violence.

Among the murder cases were two incidents in Gauteng involving individuals linked to the MK Party, one in the Western Cape involving a Democratic Alliance ward candidate and another in the Eastern Cape involving an African National Congress ward councillor.

“We strongly condemn these acts of violence. Political violence has no place in our constitutional democracy,” Cachalia said. “An attack on political representatives or supporters, regardless of party affiliation, is an attack on the democratic rights of all South Africans.”

He said SAPS had mobilised the necessary resources to investigate the cases and bring perpetrators to justice. Rewards have been offered in the murder investigations, and members of the public with information have been urged to assist police.

As the country moves closer to the Local Government Elections, Cachalia appealed to political parties, leaders and supporters to exercise tolerance and restraint.

“Political contestation must never descend into violence. No disagreement, no campaign and no political objective can justify intimidation, assault or murder,” he said.

Cachalia further revealed that SAPS has elevated its operational readiness in all provinces, with deployment plans aimed at protecting communities, critical infrastructure and public spaces. Daily security assessments and operational briefings will be conducted to ensure a swift response to any emerging threats.

“Our message is clear: everyone has the constitutional right to protest peacefully and within the confines of the law. However, criminality, intimidation, violence and the destruction of property will not be tolerated. The rule of law will prevail,” he said.

The minister added that SAPS remains the lead law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining public order and may request support from the South African National Defence Force should additional operational capacity be required.

Cachalia also confirmed that government would engage with premiers across all nine provinces this week to strengthen coordination efforts and ensure the uninterrupted functioning of essential services.

“To all South Africans, I want to assure you that Government is prepared. Our law enforcement agencies are coordinated, our operational plans are in place, and we will continue to monitor the situation daily,” he said.

He warned that anyone seeking to undermine public safety or constitutional order would face the full force of the law.

“To those who may be contemplating acts of lawlessness, our message is equally clear: the full might of the law will be brought to deal decisively with anyone who seeks to undermine the safety, security and constitutional order of our Republic.”