Following directives issued by President Cyril Ramaphosa, and subsequently reinforced by the Minister of Police, Provincial Police Commissioners were instructed to ensure the maintenance of law and order, stability and public safety during the planned national march scheduled for June 30.

Free State Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, convened a meeting of the Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) and key stakeholders on Sunday June 21 to communicate the national directives and provide provincial guidance on the security measures that will be implemented.

During the engagement, Lieutenant General Lesia emphasised the importance of a coordinated approach involving all security stakeholders and relevant state departments . Private security companies and other security agencies were encouraged to work closely with law enforcement agencies as force multipliers, assisting in safeguarding critical infrastructure, sharing information and serving as additional eyes and ears on the ground.

Security stakeholders were further directed to ensure that stability is maintained throughout the province, that there is no lawlessness, and that all critical infrastructure remains protected. Particular emphasis was placed on ensuring that the people of the Free State continue to enjoy freedom of movement and are not prevented from conducting their normal daily activities.

The Free State has already intensified its operational readiness through ongoing crime-combatting initiatives, including weekly Operation Shanela deployments, mid-month operations and Operation Prosper. These operations have yielded significant results and contributed towards addressing criminal elements, including individuals who may be in the country illegally.

The Free State Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, has also been incorporated into the operational planning process. They have been tasked with monitoring various platforms and gathering intelligence on any individuals or groups that may be instigating activities that fall outside the scope of a peaceful and lawful march.

Crime Intelligence has identified potential hotspots across the province, and deployments have already been effected in accordance with the threat analysis conducted. Resources have been strategically positioned to ensure a rapid and effective response to any situation that may arise. the police said.

The SAPS assured all residents in the Free State that comprehensive security measures are in place. “While the Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful protest, any acts of criminality, intimidation, violence, damage to infrastructure or obstruction of public movement will not be tolerated,” the police said.

Lieutenant General Lesia also emphasised that SAPS, together with its law enforcement and security partners, remains committed to protecting the constitutional rights of all citizens while ensuring that peace, stability and public safety prevail throughout the province.