Ahead of the planned anti-illegal immigration protest next Tuesday (June 30), Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia warned that threats of violence pose a considerable risk to national security following the July 2021 unrest. 

Speaking at a meeting with private security industry representatives in Centurion today (June 24), Cachalia said information sharing, co-ordinated planning and resource pooling would be critical measures in managing security risks and maintaining public safety during the build-up to the demonstration. 

The demonstration is expected to be led by March and March, a citizen-led movement calling for stronger action against undocumented immigration. 

Combining resources 

The meeting highlighted the role of the private security industry as a force multiplier in support of the SAPS during periods of heightened security risk and public mobilisation. 

In his address, Cachalia acknowledged that tensions had emerged as a result of immigration-related challenges facing the country and that while government continues to address these complex issues through the appropriate channels.  

He said developments leading up to the planned march have been associated with various forms of mobilisation and conduct that have the potential to undermine South Africa’s standing both within the region and globally.  

The meeting emphasised the importance of combining public and private sector capabilities and resources.  

Representatives of the private security industry welcomed the call for closer collaboration and pledged their support in ensuring that any planned demonstrations take place in a safe and lawful environment. 

Public safety 

The industry advised that it has already commenced preparations and expressed its readiness to contribute to maintaining public safety.  

Cachalia thanked the private security industry for its willingness to support national stability efforts.  

He emphasised the need to optimise these resources through effective co-ordination and collaboration.  

He noted that there is a heightened level of public concern and anxiety surrounding recent developments, and that clear, consistent communication with all stakeholders and communities will play an important role in promoting calm and confidence.  

Lessons of July 2021 

SAPS acting national commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said the lessons of July 2021 remain clear within the organisation.   

She said the events at the time exposed several challenges, including gaps in co-ordination, communication, early warning systems and inter-agency collaboration. 
 
According to Dimpane, one of the key lessons from the unrest was that no single organisation can effectively respond to threats of this magnitude alone. 
 
She believes success requires co-ordination, planning, information sharing and unity, and described the private security industry as a  ‘critical partner’ in the fight against crime and in maintaining stability. 
 
“We are determined that South Africa must never again experience the levels of destruction, fear and instability witnessed during July 2021,” Dimpane added.  

Zero tolerance for criminal conduct 

She said police would protect lawful and peaceful demonstrations as guaranteed by the Constitution, but would act decisively against any individual or group engaging in criminal conduct. 

Blocking roads, intimidation, destruction of property, attacks on businesses, looting, violence and any attempt to undermine public order will not be tolerated. 
 
She warned anyone considering exploiting the demonstrations to commit criminal acts that the SAPS is prepared and ready to respond.  

Dimpane stressed that law enforcement would act within the confines of the law to maintain public order and protect lives and property. 

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