With the planned national shutdown scheduled for June 30, authorities say they have prepared accordingly to maintain peace and order.

The Gauteng Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (ProvJoints) confirmed its readiness for the day. According to Brigadier Brenda Muridili, an integrated operational plan involving numerous law enforcement agencies has been implemented to ensure public safety, maintain law and order, and facilitate the constitutional right to peaceful protest.

“ProvJoints remains committed to ensuring that all persons are able to exercise their constitutional rights in a peaceful, lawful and responsible manner,” she said.

She added that numerous police units, including Public Order Policing, have been deployed to key hotspots to manage and monitor planned demonstrations.

“Command structures have been established, contingency plans are in place, and operational resources have been mobilised to respond to any eventuality.

“While Section 17 of the South African Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful and unarmed assembly, demonstration and protest, participants are reminded that this right does not extend to acts of violence, intimidation, hate speech, destruction of property or the incitement of unlawful conduct. Any person found to be engaging in criminal activity will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” she warned.

Muridili reminded the public that matters relating to illegal immigration are the responsibility of the relevant authorities and urged residents not to take the law into their own hands.

“This includes conducting immigration checks, profiling individuals or attempting to enforce immigration laws. Such actions may constitute criminal offences and will not be tolerated. Law enforcement agencies will remain impartial and professional in the execution of their duties and will act against any criminal conduct.”

Should traffic disruptions occur, she said traffic officials will provide updates and alternative routes where necessary.

At this stage, Muridili said all planned demonstrations are expected to proceed peacefully, and she encouraged all stakeholders to uphold peace.

“We appeal to all participants to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly and to refrain from any conduct that may threaten public safety or the rights of others. Law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to ensure the safety and security of all residents of Gauteng,” she stated.

She concluded by urging anyone with information about criminal activity to report it to the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or their nearest police station. Immigration-related concerns should be reported to the relevant authorities through the appropriate channels.