Johannesburg – Security forces in South Africa are on high alert as nationwide anti-immigrant protests unfold today.
Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, the Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, has declared that the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster has fully launched Operation 30 June, a comprehensive strategy aimed at safeguarding communities, securing critical infrastructure, and maintaining public order.
Mosikili mentioned that the country has witnessed “relative stability” over the past day, stressing that the essential early phase of the operation is currently underway.
National and provincial command centers are functioning around the clock, with units dedicated to Public Order Policing, specialized tactical teams, and the Air Wing deployed across all nine provinces.
Intelligence agencies are monitoring developments in real-time, allowing commanders to respond swiftly to potential threats.
The police chief reiterated that genuine protests will be protected, but warned that any unlawful actions will be confronted with “swift, proportionate, and decisive” responses.
“For those intending to break the law… our message is unequivocal: do not challenge the resolve of the State,” Mosikili asserted.
Authorities have already made several arrests related to xenophobic incidents.
Last weekend, four individuals were arrested in Rosettenville, Johannesburg, after they harassed a Congolese family at their home.
Since March, there have been 103 recorded incidents of anti-foreigner sentiment across the country, culminating in 195 arrests.
The Free State has reported the highest numbers of arrests, with 153 individuals detained.
Currently, four deaths linked to xenophobic violence have been documented, including two in KwaZulu-Natal and two in the Western Cape.
Simphiwe James Bonile, leader of the Abahambe protests, remains in custody following his arrest in May in the Western Cape, with his case set for July 2.
Police have also confirmed continued immigration enforcement, having arrested over 2,800 undocumented migrants just last week, and more than 50,000 since January.
To date, over 25,000 foreign nationals have been repatriated under strict law enforcement supervision.
Enhanced security measures are being implemented to protect critical infrastructure, transport networks, healthcare facilities, and shopping centers.
Thousands of officers from the South African Police Service, metro police, traffic units, and specialized teams are prepared and on standby.
Acting police chief Mosikili urged South Africans to remain calm, continue their daily activities, and report any suspicious conduct.
“The Republic of South Africa is governed by the rule of law—not by threats, fear, or intimidation,” she emphasized.
Through increased visible policing and intelligence-led operations, the State has pledged to uphold the Constitution, protect lives, and ensure that no group undermines national stability.
