The large-scale initiative, known as the June 30 Operational Deployment, began on June 28 and is aimed at protecting residents, maintaining law and order, and preventing a repeat of the July 2021 unrest, which claimed more than 350 lives and caused an estimated $3 billion in damage.
Security strategist Andy Mashaile said the government’s response reflects lessons learned from the past, with authorities taking a precautionary approach in the face of potential unrest. “Government would have learned from 2021, they are not taking any chances,” Mashaile said.
He added that both government and protest organisers appear cautious, with heightened awareness of the risks involved.
Mashaile said the situation requires a balanced approach, with law enforcement maintaining discipline while protesters respect the rule of law. He noted that concerns around undocumented migrants have been raised by communities, but stressed that not all foreign nationals are involved in criminal activity. “There must be a balance, respect and discipline from both the police and the marchers,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of intelligence gathering in managing the situation, saying it plays a critical role in identifying hotspots and guiding deployment strategies. “Gathering intelligence is key. It helps prevent and detect potential criminality,” Mashaile said.
In terms of contingency planning, he said SAPS must be ready to implement crowd control measures if necessary, including public order policing and dispersal tactics, while ensuring arrests are made where required.
Mashaile also emphasised the need for ongoing communication from authorities to discourage violence and keep the public informed.
Beyond the protests, concerns remain about the situation of migrants attempting to leave the country. Thousands are gathered at consulates and transit points, with many awaiting repatriation as pressure builds ahead of the shutdown.
Despite the tensions, Mashaile expressed cautious optimism that the demonstrations may remain peaceful, with participants seeking to engage government on concerns related to illegal immigration.
–ChannelAfrica–
