By Levy Masiteng
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has turned to the private security industry for additional support ahead of the nationwide demonstrations on 30 June, amid fears that protests over illegal immigration could spill into violence, looting and attacks on businesses.
The partnership was announced during a media briefing on Wednesday held by Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia, SAPS leadership, the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) and representatives of private security companies.
The meeting came amid growing tensions over illegal immigration ahead of the demonstrations. The protests are being driven by anti-illegal immigration groups, including March and March, which have given illegal foreign nationals a 30 June “deadline” to leave the country.
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March and March has already organised protests in several parts of the country. Anti-immigration movement Operation Dudula has also publicly backed calls for stronger immigration enforcement and support for the 30 June protests.
Police said they are seeking to prevent any repeat of the widespread killing, looting and destruction that accompanied the July 2021 riots.
“We are now only days away from the planned demonstrations on 30 June and it is important that all security stakeholders coordinate, communicate and prepare together,” said Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, the acting National Police Commissioner.
Private security companies pledged their support to law enforcement efforts, committing personnel, technology, equipment and operational expertise to assist in safeguarding communities, businesses and critical infrastructure.
Cachalia said the private security industry could serve as an important force multiplier for SAPS during periods of heightened security concerns.
“One of the most important lessons is that no single organisation can effectively deal with threats of this magnitude alone. Success requires coordination, planning, information sharing and unity,” said Dimpane.
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“Private security officers are often the first eyes and ears on the ground,” she said.
“We must work together. We must stand together. We must share resources. We must share information. We must support one another in the interest of public safety.”
Dimpane assured South Africans that SAPS, metro police departments and private security partners were fully prepared to manage the demonstrations while protecting constitutional rights.
“Our objective is straightforward. We will protect lawful and peaceful demonstrations as provided for in our Constitution.”
However, she warned that criminality would be dealt with decisively.
“The blocking of roads, intimidation of communities, destruction of property, attacks on businesses, looting, violence and any attempts to undermine public order will not be tolerated.”
Dimpane also issued a reminder to foreign nationals residing in South Africa to ensure they possess valid documentation.
“We don’t want to see the repeat of Marikana,” she said, referring to the deadly 2012 confrontation between police and striking mineworkers.
“The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting,” Cachalia said, quoting Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu as he emphasised the importance of prevention, preparedness and cooperation.
