Residents of Potchefstroom witnessed a strong police and private security presence on Tuesday, June 30, as a protest march linked to anti-illegal immigration sentiments moved from Ikageng into town before returning peacefully later in the afternoon.

The protest comes after provincial police confirmed on Sunday that comprehensive and coordinated operational plans had been activated across the province to ensure the safety and security of residents, businesses, travellers and visitors during planned demonstrations relating to anti-foreigner sentiments and irregular immigration.

This follows nationwide demonstrations planned for June 30 against illegal immigration in South Africa.

The Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS), under the co-chairperson leadership of Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr.) Ryno Naidoo, confirmed that heightened police visibility had been implemented at identified hotspots, including major routes, business districts, ports of entry and critical infrastructure.

Video footage: Tania Coetzee, Wouter Pienaar and Thato Bosiu

According to Maj Gen Naidoo, irregular migrants are reminded to comply with South Africa’s immigration laws and must possess valid documentation authorising their presence in the Republic.

He further stated that police, together with the Border Management Authority, Department of Home Affairs and other relevant government departments, will continue supporting lawful operations aimed at identifying and addressing immigration violations.

Naidoo also reminded individuals, organisations and community groups that they do not have the authority to enforce immigration laws independently or take the law into their own hands.

Temporary transit processing centres were also established in each district for irregular migrants wishing to voluntarily return home, with the designated centre for Potchefstroom located at Trim Park.

On Tuesday morning, community members from Ikageng began gathering near Ikageng Stadium before starting their march towards town at approximately 10:26.

The stated aim of the march was to close down businesses allegedly owned by illegal foreign nationals.

By 10:49 the group had moved past Hinterland, continuing towards town, before entering the N12 route into Potchefstroom at approximately 11:40.

Acting Executive Mayor and MMC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport Management, Leon Musa Mkhabela, together with chairperson of the Portfolio Committee for Community Safety, Roads and Transport Management, Thabo Macdonald Motlhatswi, formally received a memorandum from representatives of the march.

The memorandum outlined demands relating to the protection of South African informal traders, as well as requests for increased support for small businesses from the Department of Local Economic and Rural Development and the municipality.

After accepting the memorandum, Mkhabela addressed protesters and urged them to exercise their right to protest peacefully, respect the rule of law and refrain from damaging municipal infrastructure.

At around 13:51 the group had reached the central business district near Wandellaan.

Motorists were advised to avoid the N12 for several hours as the group later began returning towards Ikageng, causing temporary traffic disruptions and delays.

Despite concerns ahead of the demonstration, the march remained peaceful throughout the day.

Police presence remained strong throughout the demonstration, with several private security companies also deployed to monitor the situation.

Provincial police have meanwhile urged members of the public to remain calm, continue with normal daily activities and refrain from sharing unverified information that could create unnecessary panic or further inflame tensions.