FREE STATE — Police in the Free State have activated security measures across all 1 614 voting stations in the province as voter registration for local government elections got underway on Saturday.

The South African Police Service (SAPS), working with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and Department of Home Affairs, confirmed that all voting stations opened successfully for the registration weekend.

The Provincial Joint Operational Centre (ProvJOC), which coordinates security and electoral operations, is monitoring developments across the province through regular operational meetings.

Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia said officers were deployed throughout the Free State to respond to incidents that may arise.

“The safety and security of all citizens exercising their democratic right to register to vote remains our priority. Our members are deployed throughout the province and stand ready to respond swiftly and effectively to any situation that may arise,” Lesia said.

Police have implemented operational plans at voting stations and identified hotspots, with law enforcement agencies on high alert to address incidents that could disrupt the electoral process.

The SAPS urged communities to cooperate with law enforcement and election personnel, and to report criminal activities that may threaten the integrity of the voter registration process.

The registration weekend provides eligible citizens with the opportunity to register and verify their voting details ahead of the local government elections.

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