A PLANNED protest set for June 30 by the “March and March” civic movement has placed law enforcement, private security companies, and community policing structures across Durban North and Greenwood Park on high alert.

Also read: Wanted fraud suspect arrested in Durban North

The movement, led by founder and former radio personality Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, campaigns for stricter immigration enforcement and the removal of undocumented foreign nationals. It has organised protests, marches, and so-called “clean-up” operations calling for tighter border controls and a review of asylum policies.

While authorities have activated contingency plans ahead of the protest, all stakeholders have emphasised that they are hoping for a peaceful and lawful demonstration.

Greenwood Park SAPS Station Commander Colonel Mbongeni Samuel Khalishwayo said police, together with other law enforcement agencies, have implemented comprehensive operational plans to ensure public safety.

“Crime Intelligence has been closely monitoring developments and sentiments related to the planned actions, including those targeting foreign nationals. While the right to peaceful protest is protected by the Constitution, this right must be exercised within the confines of the law and must not infringe on the rights, safety, dignity and freedoms of others,” he said.

He further called on all residents to reject violence, hate speech and any actions that may create fear or division within our communities.

“We would like to assure the community that Greenwood Park SAPS, together with our law enforcement partners, is fully prepared. Comprehensive operational plans are in place, our members are ready for deployment, and we will continue working closely with Crime Intelligence and all stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of every resident. We urge everyone to remain calm, act responsibly, reject violence and misinformation, and allow law enforcement to carry out its duties. SAPS in KwaZulu-Natal remains equal to the task,” he added.

He said all vacation leave had been cancelled, and members have reported back to duty.

Also read: KZN SAPS reassure citizens ahead of June 30 marches

Gareth Naidoo, spokesperson KZN VIP Protection Services, said it has activated a comprehensive operational plan ahead of the protest.

“Our teams will provide high-visibility patrols, armed reaction, tactical support and continuous operational monitoring to help protect clients, businesses and critical infrastructure. Extensive risk assessments have identified concerns, including public disorder, opportunistic crime, traffic disruptions, property damage and the potential for isolated incidents to escalate. While we remain hopeful the protest will be peaceful, we are prepared for a range of scenarios,” said Naidoo.

Marshall Security said it was aware of concerns surrounding the planned protest action and assured communities that preparations are already underway.

“Meetings have been held and contingency plans have been put in place in conjunction with other private security companies, the South African Police Service, Metro Police, and various community safety stakeholders to ensure a co-ordinated response should the need arise. We encourage members of the public to remain calm and avoid unnecessary panic. Information can change rapidly during incidents of this nature, and the spread of unverified information often creates confusion and anxiety within communities,” said the company’s spokesperson, Tyron Powell.

Blue Security said it was also prepared for the protest on Tuesday.

“As a security provider, we don’t publicly disclose operational or tactical detail — doing so would directly compromise the safety of the residents, clients and communities we exist to protect. That’s not evasion; it’s the standard any serious operator is bound to. Our teams are deployed and monitoring the situation, and we are in contact with the relevant authorities. Our clients’ safety is our only priority,” said a spokesperson.

Michael Bester, PRO for the Greenwood Park Community Police Forum (main forum), said the community remains concerned about the possibility of a repeat of the July 2021 unrest and looting.

“Our community is understandably concerned that another ‘July’-type looting incident could occur, and many residents are worried about their safety. The Community Police Forum (CPF) and the various neighbourhood watches will serve as the eyes and ears for law enforcement, assisting in ensuring our communities receive the appropriate response when needed. We have been engaging with SAPS through regular meetings, and we will continue to communicate with the community as soon as all information has been verified,” he said.

“The Durban North and Greenwood Park communities have joined forces and are well prepared for this march. A successful outcome for us would be no looting, no violence and no disruptions. We remain hopeful that everything will continue peacefully, with no incidents in our areas,” added Bester.

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