Gauteng authorities are steadfast in their commitment to restoring order while seeking to address the complex issues surrounding immigration, a subject that continues to evoke strong emotions across the province.
Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni has issued strong warnings against "habitual criminals" who are exploiting the ongoing protests against illegal immigration to commit crimes. On Tuesday alone, law enforcement agencies linked to the protests accounted for a staggering 154 criminal incidents across Gauteng.
Mthombeni's grim update reflects a broader atmosphere of concern, as he revealed that Ekurhuleni reported the highest number of incidents, with 49 arrests. The City of Johannesburg followed closely behind with 41 arrests, while Sedibeng, Tshwane, and the West Rand saw 30, 18, and 16 arrests respectively.
"We have accounted for 37 incidents with 154 arrests. So, it means people, even if they are warned, still commit these crimes. We are dealing with habitual criminals. This came out clearly yesterday. Despite the previous warning, we have encountered high numbers of arrests within the province," said Mthombeni.
Nationally, the figure stands at 1,000 people who were arrested during the June 30 nationwide protests, with the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS), led by acting police minister Firoz Cachalia, warning that law enforcement is prepared to monitor further demonstrations.
