Police gear up for nationwide protest against illegal immigration

Acting Police Minister, Firoz Cachalia has revealed that police are ready to thwart any form of lawlessness on June 30 as the deadline looms for illegal immigrants to leave South Africa.

Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers

The South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies say they are ready for the much-anticipated nationwide protest against illegal immigration on June 30.

The protest, organised by civic group March and March and other interest groups calling for undocumented foreigners to leave South Africa, prompted police to enhance operational readiness.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia confirmed the preparations during a crucial meeting in Johannesburg on Monday.

On the agenda was a comprehensive overview of national and provincial operational plans designed to ensure that the demonstrations, planned for June 30, occur in a safe and secure manner.

The meeting saw Cachalia joined by Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga, Deputy Ministers of Police Cassel Mathale and Dr Polly Boshielo, and Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, the Acting National Commissioner of SAPS.

"The South African Police Service has elevated its operational readiness across all provinces, with deployment plans in place to safeguard communities, critical infrastructure, and significant public spaces," Cachalia stated.

The acting minister also emphasised that continual assessments and monitoring would occur to adapt to any emerging risks.

A part of the meeting’s focus was to review the integrated National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) operational plan as well as address operational aspects from the recent voter registration weekend.

In a bid to foster coordination among security players, Cachalia announced future meetings with provincial premiers and Motshekga to ensure unified action ahead of the demonstrations.

While asserting the police’s preparedness to uphold the law, Cachalia reminded the public that while the constitutional right to protest peacefully is paramount, any acts of lawlessness, intimidation, or violence would not be tolerated.

He reinforced that ongoing enforcement operations seek to verify the legal status of foreign nationals within the country. "When violations are identified, appropriate action will be pursued in accordance with the law," he said.

As South Africa approaches the local government elections set for November 4, the acting minister expressed a need for political tolerance.

The plea follows reported violence that resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals after this past weekend’s voter registration drive.

"Political contestation must never descend into violence. No disagreement or campaign can justify such acts," Cachalia said, urging party leaders, candidates, and supporters to demonstrate restraint and respect for democracy.