Law enforcement deployments increased ahead of 30 June protests

Law enforcement deployments have been increased in the Western Cape in anticipation of possible disruptions that could take place during anti-immigration planned protests on 30 June 2026.

The Western Cape Minister for Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, says intelligence-gathering efforts are underway to provide early warning of any threats to public order and safety.

The Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre has also activated contingency measures to support any required emergency response.

The Provincial Joint Operational Centre (ProvJOC) has reportedly also been activated, and all relevant stakeholders are working closely to ensure public safety and stability.

The minister has been briefed on the matter at the Western Cape Provincial Operational Command Centre (POCC) on the South African Police Service’s operational readiness to respond to any incidents.

Marais has called on residents to refrain from any acts of violence, intimidation, or lawlessness during or ahead of the planned protests.

“The Western Cape Government acknowledges the frustrations regarding issues affecting residents and their communities. We also respect the constitutional right of residents to protest peacefully. However, any protest action must be peaceful, lawful and within the confines of the Constitution. The rule of law must be respected at all times,” added Marais

The minister urged all law-abiding citizens to reject calls for violence and to refrain from participating in any activities that could destabilise communities or undermine the rule of law.

“There can be no justification for violence, intimidation, damage to property, looting or attacks on individuals. Such actions place lives at risk and divert valuable law enforcement resources away from the fight against crime.”

Residents have also been strongly warned against the spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media platforms. This is because the spreading of misinformation or disinformation aimed at provoking unrest may constitute a criminal offence and could result in criminal charges.

“Residents are urged to act responsibly online and to refrain from sharing unverified information, inflammatory content or messages intended to incite violence or create fear.”

Marais further emphasised that concerns relating to immigration must be addressed through lawful and established channels.