With nationwide protests expected on Tuesday, June 30, the Lowveld and surrounds will be on high alert. To ensure the community is kept informed and safe, a Joint Operation Command (JOC) will be activated.

The JOC brings together most of the region’s leading security companies and will be headed by:

• Albert Greyvestein – AG Solutions: 082 567 5212
• John Meintjies – ACS Spartan Security: 082 926 5194
• Shaun Terblanche – Fidelity Special Services: 082 901 2701
• Braam Oosthuizen – Isecure Security Services: 082 445 9139
• Frank Swanepoel – FPS Security: 082 778 0883.
  Together, they will co-ordinate monitoring efforts and provide real-time updates to the public. The protests are being organised by civic groups including March and March and the Insizwa Ngobunsizwa Foundation, who are demanding the removal of undocumented foreign nationals from South Africa.
  
• Organisers insist the protest will be peaceful, but officials stress that the outcome is impossible to predict.
  Authorities have warned that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, lawlessness, intimidation or violence will not be tolerated.
  
• For the Lowveld, the JOC’s presence means the situation will be closely monitored, with rapid communication provided to the public.
  Businesses and residents are advised to remain vigilant and rely only on official updates.
  If you need direct assistance, you can phone any of the JOC leaders listed above or contact your local security company if they are part of the JOC structure.

Updates will be shared through:

• Lowvelder’s Facebook page and website www.lowvelder.co.za
• Radio Laeveld’s Facebook page and live broadcasts
• The official JOC WhatsApp channel – https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VafOgpr3GJP4oDwhDM3O
  Residents are urged to stay connected to these platforms for verified information as events unfold.

Read: Mpumalanga SAPS lays out plans for expected national protest

Handy safety tips
Vehicle and travel safety:
•Verify travel routes using community security groups, Waze, or Google Maps before departing.

• Do not force entry. If you approach a burning barricade or protesting crowd, do not attempt to drive through. Execute a safe U-turn or reverse out immediately.
• Keep moving. Do not stop to photograph, film or spectate any protests.

Business and property security
Labour compliance:

• Ensure workplace records comply with the Immigration Act to avoid flash inspections.
• Lock-up readiness – check gates, roller shutters and cameras, and establish a rapid lock-up protocol for staff.
• Network integration. Stay connected with your local CPF, neighbourhood watch, private security providers and media houses for live updates.

Important notice
Vigilante or unauthorised enforcement acts are strictly prohibited. For emergencies, contact SAPS on 10111 or use the My SAPS app.