Image Source: BBC
Local – Acting National Police Commissioner Puleng Dimpane has warned that those considering exploiting the planned demonstrations on 30 June to commit criminal acts will face decisive law-enforcement action.
She assured South Africans that the South African Police Service (SAPS), working closely with other law enforcement agencies, including metro and private security, is ready for the protests.
“Extensive planning has been undertaken at national, provincial and local levels,” Dimpane said.
Addressing the media after meeting with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) and the private security industry, Dimpane said the sector is a critical partner in fighting crime and maintaining stability.
She added that South Africa must never again witness the destruction and instability seen during July 2021.
“With hundreds of thousands of security officers deployed throughout the country and significant technology and operational resources at its disposal, the industry serves as an important force multiplier for law enforcement,” Dimpane said.
First Responders Critical to SAPS Planning
Private security officers are often the first eyes and ears on the ground, operating in communities, business districts, industrial areas, shopping centres and residential neighbourhoods throughout the country.
Through the Eyes and Ears Initiative and the partnership with Business Against Crime South Africa, Dimpane said private security companies continue to play a role in crime prevention and situational awareness.
She said the value of this partnership has already been demonstrated before, and welcomed the commitment shown by private security companies ahead of the demonstrations.
“We must work together. We must stand together. We must share resources. We must share information. We must support one another in the interest of public safety,” she said.
Communication channels between SAPS, PSIRA, private security companies and other stakeholders have been strengthened, Dimpane said, and the police’s objective is to protect lawful and peaceful demonstrations as provided for in the Constitution while acting decisively against criminal conduct.
“The blocking of roads, intimidation of communities, destruction of property, attacks on businesses, looting, violence and any attempts to undermine public order will not be tolerated,” she said, adding that “the SAPS is ready, the SAPS is prepared, and law enforcement will act within the confines of the law to maintain public order and protect lives and property.”
