GQEBERHA – Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata announced the deployment of 290 SANDF members to support SAPS operations until March 2027, during the launch of Operation Prosper at a joint security forces parade in Gqeberha on 2 April.

The initiative follows President Ramaphosa’s announcement during the State of the Nation Address on 12 February that SANDF members would support the South African Police Service in addressing gang violence and other problematic criminal activities in identified hotspots across the country.

Ncata said that targeted areas include Helenvale, Gelvandale, Chetty, and Kamesh (Kariega) in Nelson Mandela Bay, as well as Humansdorp and Jeffreys Bay in the Sarah Baartman District.

He further said that the operation focuses on drug networks, illegal firearms, extortion syndicates, and construction mafias.

“This mission is about restoring peace and dignity to communities,” said Ncata.

He said that SAPS remains the lead agency, with SANDF as a force multiplier, acting strictly within the law and with respect for human rights.

Communities are urged to cooperate with law enforcement and reject mob justice.

Following a briefing on hotspots including Gelvandale, Helenvale, and Chetty, operations will run from 3 April 2026 to 31 March 2027.

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