NATJOINTS urges calm as protests loom, warns against violence and lawlessness
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has called on protesters across the country to act within the law and avoid any violence, intimidation, or unlawful behaviour during demonstrations.
In a media statement released on Tuesday, NATJOINTS stressed that while the country’s Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful protest, this right must be exercised responsibly.
"NATJOINTS calls on all individuals and organisations participating in marches to conduct themselves responsibly and within the confines of the law," the statement said.
Authorities warned that any acts of violence or incitement would not be tolerated, urging demonstrators to refrain from carrying dangerous weapons or engaging in intimidation.
"The right to protest must be exercised without violence, intimidation, or any form of unlawful conduct," NATJOINTS said.
Protesters have also been urged to respect the rights and dignity of others, regardless of nationality, and to comply with instructions from law enforcement officers deployed on the ground.
Law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), have been placed on high alert, with Public Order Policing units tasked with monitoring demonstrations and maintaining stability.
"Law enforcement members on the ground have been instructed to strictly enforce the law and to act decisively against any individuals found carrying dangerous weapons or engaging in incitement to violence," National Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said.
NATJOINTS issued a stern warning against vigilantism and any actions that could threaten public safety.
"The NATJOINTS will not tolerate any actions that threaten public safety or undermine the rule of law, acts of vigilantism and lawlessness will not be tolerated."
The structure also highlighted ongoing crime-fighting operations, including Operation Shanela, which it said continues to yield results through the arrest of thousands of suspects weekly.
"Through intensified police operations such as Operation Shanela, we continue to clamp down on criminal activities, resulting in the arrest of thousands of suspects per week, including those involved in serious and violent crimes," Mathe said.
Authorities have reiterated that any individuals found violating the law during protests will be dealt with accordingly, as security forces remain on standby to ensure demonstrations remain peaceful and within the law.
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