Picture: Police officers during parade/Generic
By OBAKENG MAJE
25 June 2026 – The Northern Cape Provincial Joint Structure (PROV JOINTS) comprising of the South African Police Service (SAPS), government departments, municipalities and other law enforcement and security stakeholders, wish to assure communities across the province that comprehensive operational plans are in place to ensure the safety and security of all residents ahead of the planned 30 June shutdown actions and any related activities. The Provincial Joint Structure said it has been closely monitoring developments, including calls for protest action, public gatherings and sentiments targeting foreign nationals.
The Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola said while the right to peaceful protest is protected by the constitution of the Republic of South Africa (RSA), this right must be exercised within the confines of the law and should not infringe on the rights, safety and dignity of others. Otola said the security forces will not tolerate any acts of violence, intimidation, destruction of property, disruption of essential services, criminality or any form of discrimination and xenophobic-related actions directed at individuals or communities based on nationality or any other grounds.
“We directed that all operational deployments remain focused, intelligence-driven and coordinated to maintain public order, prevent crime and respond swiftly to any incidents that may threaten the safety of communities.
“Law enforcement officers will be deployed strategically across identified areas to ensure visibility, monitor developments and facilitate a safe environment for residents, businesses, road users and visitors throughout the province,” she said.
Otola further said the public is urged to remain calm and to obtain information from credible sources and are encouraged to work together with law enforcement agencies by reporting any suspicious activities, acts of violence or criminal behaviour to the relevant authorities. She added that the Northern Cape remains committed to promoting social cohesion, respect for human rights and the rule of law.
“The Provincial Joint Structure further calls on all residents to reject violence, hate speech and actions that may create division within communities. The safety and security of every person living in the Northern Cape remains a collective responsibility.
“The Provincial Joint Structures are ready and committed to ensuring that peace and stability is maintained before, during and after the planned activities,” said Otola.
The Guardian 