The Eastern Cape Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (ProvJoints) has elevated its state of readiness across all eight districts ahead of the planned nationwide protests against illegal immigration on Tuesday, 30 June.
The heightened state of readiness comes ahead of the planned nationwide protests against illegal immigration.
According to a statement released by the South African Police Service (SAPS), Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata has activated comprehensive contingency plans, including the reinforcement of personnel and the deployment of additional law enforcement resources.
SAPS said it has identified potential hotspots and will be supported by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in areas affected by gang-related violence.
Ncata said: “While we acknowledge and respect the constitutional right of citizens to engage in peaceful demonstrations, we will not hesitate to act against any acts of lawlessness, violence, intimidation or criminality.
“We have bolstered our manpower across the province and are calling on all protesters to conduct themselves responsibly and within the bounds of the law.
“No private person or persons will be allowed to assume the duties and responsibilities of law enforcement agencies,” Ncata continued.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has called on citizens to remain calm.
“As government, we remain open to engagement on the matters that have been raised, and we appreciate that last week’s march in the province was conducted in compliance with the law.
“I call for the same responsible approach to tomorrow’s march, where demonstrators will exercise their constitutional right to protest peacefully and in accordance with the Constitution,” said Mabuyane.
According to the Office of the Premier (OTP), as of 28 June, approximately 700 foreign nationals, mainly Malawians, had been processed by the Department of Home Affairs in Jeffreys Bay and St Francis Bay.
The OTP also revealed that the provincial government has established a central Provincial Processing Centre in kuGompo City as a strategic central location within the province.
“All logistical arrangements have been coordinated to ensure the smooth and safe escort of foreign nationals being deported or repatriated to their countries of origin.
“Furthermore, all district and metro municipalities in the province have identified venues to be used as displacement centres to house and manage the processing of migrants as and when required.
“Law enforcement agencies, led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), are on high alert across the province to prevent any unlawful activities and ensure that public order is maintained. This includes the monitoring of all points of entry, as well as freight and logistics corridors. Individuals or groups found engaging in acts of violence, intimidation or incitement will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law,” said the provincial government.
“Communities are urged not to take the law into their own hands.
“Any grievances should be directed through appropriate government channels.”
