We cannot allow the rights and freedoms granted to us to be exploited for the sake of a few, who think that lawlessness and violence will be a way to achieve their goals. Those who intend to protest should do so peacefully, lawfully and with respect for the rights, dignity and safety of others. – President Cyril Ramaphosa
South Africans are being urged to plan their journeys carefully on Tuesday, June 30, as authorities prepare for planned demonstrations against undocumented immigration that could disrupt traffic in several parts of the country.
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Road safety organisation Arrive Alive has identified a number of high-, medium- and low-risk protest hotspots, warning motorists to expect possible road closures, traffic congestion, freight disruptions and protest-related activity across multiple provinces.
The advisory comes as President Cyril Ramaphosa called on demonstrators to exercise their constitutional right to protest peacefully while respecting the rights and safety of others. Cyril Ramaphosa, the President of South Africa, acknowledged that many South Africans have expressed concerns over illegal immigration, border management, pressure on public services and criminal syndicates exploiting the country’s immigration system.
“South Africans have raised deep concerns about illegal immigration, border management, pressure on public services, criminal syndicates that exploit our immigration system and the impact these challenges have on communities,” he said. However, the president stressed that the right to protest does not extend to unlawful behaviour.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has assured the public that extensive security measures are in place ahead of the demonstrations. Speaking during a media briefing, Lieutenant-General Tebello Mosikili said the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster had activated its national operational plan, known as Operation June 30. Mosikili said law enforcement agencies had been deployed across all nine provinces, with the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures, provincial command centres and operational teams operating around the clock.
Public Order Policing units, specialised response teams and the SAPS Air Wing have also been placed on standby to respond to any incidents. “The State is ready. Law enforcement is ready. South Africa is ready,” Mosikili said, adding that contingency plans had been thoroughly tested and that there would be “no security vacuum.”
Motorists urged to remain vigilant Authorities have advised motorists to monitor traffic updates, avoid affected areas where possible and allow extra travel time throughout the day.