South African Police Warn Against Weapons at June 30 Anti-Immigration Marches

South Africa’s police leadership has warned protesters against carrying weapons, including traditional ones, during planned anti-illegal immigration marches next week.

SAPS management updated reporters Monday on security preparations for the June 30 demonstrations, which activist groups set as a deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country.

National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure Chairperson Tebello Mosikili said police would act swiftly against anyone found with weapons at the protests.

“While we respect the constitutional right to protest, demonstrations must remain peaceful and must not endanger lives or property,” Mosikili said.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said security for June 30 would cost SAPS over R600 million, about $37 million. He added that law enforcement would be deployed in full force and would not tolerate criminality or incitement to violence.