Police have arrested three people for allegedly attempting to gain unauthorised access to the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC), where the 46th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit is under way.
Authorities have warned members of the public against attempts to bypass security measures or enter restricted areas surrounding the summit venue.
National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said comprehensive security and law-enforcement measures had been put in place to ensure the safety of delegates and manage activities taking place around the summit.
“Security and law enforcement plans are in place to manage these activities. NATJOINTS respects the constitutional right to protest peacefully and lawfully,” Mathe said.
The arrests come as security has been heightened around the Durban ICC ahead of and during the regional gathering, which brings together leaders and senior officials from SADC member states.
The summit is being chaired by President Cyril Ramaphosa and is being held under the theme of building resilient and inclusive industrialisation through infrastructure development, agriculture and critical minerals.
Authorities have reiterated that while peaceful and lawful demonstrations will be respected, attempts to breach restricted areas or disrupt summit proceedings will not be tolerated.