Gauteng police have placed key national highways under close watch as they prepare for a threatened 30 June shutdown that could disrupt South Africa’s critical transport and logistics networks.
The planned action, driven by anti-illegal immigration groups has raised concerns over possible disruptions along major freight corridors.
Police have identified the N1, N3, N4 and N12 highways as potential targets and have activated a dedicated contingency plan to prevent any unlawful activity.
The plan comes as demonstrations have intensified against government’s poor implementation of immigration laws.
Despite the president’s address acknowledgement of a growing crisis of undocumented migrants some groups are not convinced government is able to handle the issue.
Police say high-visibility policing, roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and targeted patrols will be intensified along identified routes and hotspots.
The security operation will begin on 29 June, with police mobilising resources across Gauteng amid fears that protests could escalate into violence or attempts to block strategic transport routes.
According to police, intelligence structures have been gathering information on planned actions, monitoring organisers and assessing threats linked to the shutdown.
Public order policing units, tactical response teams, visible policing members and specialised operational resources will be deployed to ensure the free movement of people and goods.
Police warned that any attempts to disrupt transport networks, intimidate motorists or target foreign nationals will be met with immediate intervention.
Officials said that they aim to prevent economic disruption and avert any repeat of violence.
Shallan Govender
www.ewn.co.za
