South Africa is on high alert as thousands of demonstrators gather across the country for planned anti-illegal immigration protests, with law enforcement agencies deploying thousands of officers to maintain order and prevent violence.
The demonstrations, taking place on 30 June, are being led by several anti-illegal immigration groups calling for stricter enforcement of immigration laws and the deportation of undocumented foreign nationals. The protests coincide with an unofficial deadline issued by some activist groups for undocumented migrants to leave the country.
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) says its nationwide operational plans have been fully activated.
Natjoints Chairperson Lieutenant-General Tebello Mosikili said all law enforcement agencies understand their responsibilities and are ready to ensure that the demonstrations remain peaceful and within the law.
Government has also warned that threats, intimidation, violence and acts of vigilantism will not be tolerated, urging members of the public not to circulate unverified information that could fuel panic or misinformation.
Thousands of Police Deployed
Police have been deployed in large numbers across Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and other provinces, while the South African National Defence Force remains on standby should additional support be required.
In Gauteng, thousands of demonstrators are expected to participate in several marches across Johannesburg, Pretoria and Midrand.
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, who chairs the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration, is expected to provide updates alongside Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni as authorities monitor developments.
Roads to Avoid in Pretoria
The Tshwane Metro Police Department confirmed that a march will begin at Church Square in Pretoria at 10:00 before proceeding to Sunnyside.
Motorists have been advised to avoid the following roads:
- Church Square
- Paul Kruger Street
- Lilian Ngoyi Street
- Madiba Street
- Nelson Mandela Drive
- Kortze Street
- Van Boeschoten Avenue
- Robert Sobukwe Street
- Leyds Street
Alternative routes include:
- Nana Sita Street
- Visagie Street
- Justice Mahomed Street
- Jeff Masemola Street
- Johannes Ramokhoase Street
- Struben Street
- Bloed Street
- Kgosi Mampuru Street
- Eskia Mphahlele Drive
Johannesburg CBD, Hillbrow and Midrand Affected
The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) confirmed three legally approved marches across the city.
The largest demonstration, expected to attract approximately 5,000 participants, will move from Beyers Naudé Square to Constitution Hill.
Additional demonstrations are planned in Hillbrow, where around 100 people are expected to participate, and Midrand's Glen Austin area, where approximately 800 demonstrators are anticipated.
Motorists are advised to expect disruptions along:
- Beyers Naudé Square
- Constitution Hill
- Helen Joseph Street
- Troye Street
- Twist Street
- Kotze Street
- Queen Plein
- Dale Road
- Modderfontein Road
- Sandton Plant Hire Offices
In Durban, protesters are gathering at King Dinuzulu Park before marching through the city's streets.
Authorities have identified Durban as one of the key hotspots and say additional police resources have been deployed throughout the city.
eThekwini Metro Police spokesperson Boysie Zungu said law enforcement is prepared to respond to any eventuality while ensuring demonstrations remain peaceful.
Police in the Eastern Cape have also increased security ahead of demonstrations planned in Gqeberha, Mthatha and Komani.
The Eastern Cape Development Corporation has advised businesses in the Buffalo City Metro to temporarily close as a precaution against possible disruptions.
Despite concerns over possible unrest, the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) says taxi services will continue operating as normal.
Santaco President Motlhabane Tsebe said the association's responsibility is to provide transport services and that operations are expected to continue without interruption.
Meanwhile, voluntary repatriation efforts are continuing across the country.
Thousands of Malawian nationals remain at temporary processing centres in Musina, Limpopo, with many reportedly spending several nights sleeping on buses or outdoors while awaiting transport through the Beitbridge Border Post.
In Cape Town, undocumented foreign nationals who have chosen to return home are being processed at the Department of Home Affairs' Epping facility.
The City of Cape Town says its Safety and Security Directorate is working alongside the South African Police Service and Home Affairs to respond swiftly to any incidents.
Travellers have also been advised to prepare for possible disruptions.
CemAir has warned passengers that airport access, staffing levels, security screening and baggage handling could be affected by the nationwide protests.
The airline has urged travellers to arrive at airports earlier than usual and monitor travel updates.
The organisation March and March has emphasised that its members will not conduct searches of foreign nationals during the demonstrations.
The group says only police officers and immigration officials have the legal authority to inspect identity documents or immigration status.
Authorities have reiterated that while peaceful protest is protected under the Constitution, any acts of violence, intimidation, looting, road blockades or unlawful conduct will be met with immediate law enforcement action as the nationwide demonstrations continue.