Law-enforcement tight-lipped over anticipated ‘national shutdown’
“Law-enforcement are on high alert and ready to maintain stability in the country and ensure the safety and security of South Africans."
The national joint operational and intelligence structure (NatJoints) remained tight-lipped on whether threats of a shutdown were acted upon by midday on Monday.
“It’s still too early to be providing such information, but, as the day progresses, maybe we can be in a position to give you the status quo around the country,” NatJoints spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Netshiunda said.
Netshiunda was responding to Rekord’s enquiry about whether or not any incidents of violence were recorded after a provocative message advocating for violence was reportedly circulated on social media platforms while another set of posts called on people to respond to the supposed planned shutdown.
“Law-enforcement agencies are on high alert. They have, through the national joint operational and intelligence structure, put measures in place to ensure the safety and security of South Africans amidst these threats,” he said.
“The public is urged not to respond to calls for violence and criminality and are thus discouraged from participating in activities that seek to defy the rule of law and undermine the authority of the state.”
Netshiunda further said that law-abiding citizens should be at ease, knowing that the NatJoints was not taking the threats lightly. “Security forces are on high alert and ready to maintain stability in the country,” he said.
The public was also reminded that the country was still on adjusted alert level 3 of the lockdown, which still called for maximum adherence to Covid-19 regulations and health protocols.
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Closer to home, Tshwane metro police department spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba reassured residents that they were ready for any possible violence.
“As the Tshwane metro police department, jointly with other law-enforcement agencies, are ready for any eventualities.” Community policing forums and other related sub-forums were also urged to work together with law-enforcement agencies.
Meanwhile, ward 4 councillor Ridge Petersen assured residents the Tshwane metro was “working tirelessly” to ensure their safety and that of property.
“As a councillor, I would like to discourage residents from engaging in acts of looting. I also want to show my appreciation to all the units which are working on the ground for all their hard work.” Petersen said these units included the SAPS, TMPD, CPFs and private security companies.
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