Cape town: Deputy Defence Minister, General Bantu Holomisa, has announced that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is prepared to deploy troops to support the South African Police Service (SAPS) in response to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive aimed at tackling gang violence and illegal mining in Gauteng and the Western Cape.
According to South African Government News Agency, operational preparations are underway, awaiting formal approval from Parliament. General Holomisa stated, “What we are expecting now is word from Parliament on how to proceed. Once that is received, we will move in. Within two weeks we will be deploying troops to work with the police and ensure that the President’s directive is carried out.”
President Ramaphosa has instructed the Ministers of Police and Defence to finalize a tactical deployment plan. This plan will identify priority areas within the Western Cape and Gauteng where security forces will focus their efforts to curb gang violence and illegal mining. The President intends to formally inform the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces about the timing, locations, and projected costs of the deployment.
“We have to act to rid our country of gang violence. At the same time, we are implementing an integrated strategy to address the root causes of crime through coordinated interventions across society, from street lighting to access to social services,” President Ramaphosa stated.
General Holomisa has urged communities to cooperate with the deployed soldiers, emphasizing that SANDF members will be executing a lawful mandate in support of police operations. “No one should point a gun at our soldiers. They will be there to do a job in support of law enforcement,” he added.
Furthermore, the Defence Minister highlighted the department’s readiness to assist other government entities in enhancing border security as part of broader crime-prevention efforts. He stressed the importance of ensuring that troops are adequately equipped and supported, especially when deployed along the country’s borders.
The planned deployment is part of a coordinated national effort to stabilize affected communities and bolster law enforcement capacity in high-risk areas.