Ramaphosa deploys more soldiers to protect power stations
They are to focus specifically on sabotage, theft and other crimes that may threaten the functioning of power stations and the supply of electricity.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has informed Parliament that he has authorised the employment of 880 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to safeguard a number of Eskom power stations around the country.
In a statement, the presidency says the soldiers will work with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the prevention and combating of crime and maintenance and preservation of law and order.
They are to focus specifically on sabotage, theft and other crimes that may threaten the functioning of power stations and the supply of electricity.
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"The employment is from 17 April 2023 to 17 October 2023," say the Presidency.
Previously, 2700 members of the SANDF were employed to assist the SAPS in protecting Eskom power stations under Operation Prosper from 17 March 2023 to 17 April 2023.
The Presidency says the expenditure expected to be incurred for this employment is R 146 718 427.
