Army deployed in Gauteng, KZN to deal with protests

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has started with pre-deployment processes and procedures in line with a request for assistance received from the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS).

This is to assist law enforcement agencies deployed in Gauteng and KwaZulu Natal Provinces respectively to quell the unrest that has gripped both Provinces in the last few days.

“The deployment will commence as soon as all deployment processes are in place,” said the SANDF in a statement.

The duration and number of deploying soldiers will be determined based on the assessment of the situation on the ground by the relevant law enforcement agencies.

“Furthermore, it must be emphasised that the SANDF’s deployment objective is to provide safety and a safe working environment for members of the SAPS and other law enforcement agencies whilst they carry out their Constitutionally mandated law and order duties,” the army explained.

SANDF deployment-related information updates will follow in due course.