Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has urged South Africans planning to participate in anti-illegal immigration protests at the end of June to do so peacefully and within the law, warning that criminal behaviour will be dealt with decisively.
“Our message is clear: Everyone has the constitutional right to protest peacefully and within the confines of the law. However, criminality, intimidation, violence, the destruction of property and any attempt to undermine public safety will not be tolerated,” Cachalia said during a media briefing on Monday.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has elevated its operational readiness across all provinces, with reports indicating that approximately R600 million will be spent on policing operations linked to the demonstrations.
Cachalia stressed that law enforcement agencies are prepared for any eventuality.
“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,” he said.
Government has assured citizens that daily security assessments, coordinated deployments and contingency plans are in place to protect communities, critical infrastructure and public spaces during the planned demonstrations.
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