The City of Johannesburg has launched a major intergovernmental operation in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) aimed at reclaiming the inner city and restoring law and order.

The initiative, led by city manager Dr Floyd Brink, forms part of an intensified crackdown on illegal mining, organised crime syndicates, hijacked buildings, infrastructure vandalism, cable theft and urban decay.

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According to a media statement, the intervention follows high-level discussions between municipal leadership and the SANDF, with presidential authorisation secured for the deployment of defence force members until March 31, 2027.

Brink said the operation marks a decisive shift in the city’s approach to crime and lawlessness.

“This is not business as usual. Johannesburg is saying clearly: no more lawlessness. No more no-go areas. No more surrendering our economic engine to criminal syndicates,” he said.

The statement mentioned that the partnership is intended to overcome long-standing jurisdictional challenges that previously hindered co-ordinated enforcement efforts. The new approach will focus on an integrated operational model driven by intelligence sharing, joint accountability and strengthened enforcement capacity.

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Officials added that the collaboration would allow for more co-ordinated responses to criminal activity and infrastructure-related crimes that have contributed to the deterioration of parts of the inner city.

Further engagements are planned between the city, provincial authorities and national law enforcement structures to reinforce operational support and ensure sustained implementation of the programme.

Brink described the initiative as a turning point for Johannesburg, adding that its success could serve as a model for other municipalities facing similar challenges related to crime and urban decay.

He added that the collaboration sends a clear message that lawlessness can be defeated through co-ordinated leadership and sustained enforcement action.