The Western Cape (WC) Police has warned that police will not hesitate to act decisively against marchers or protesters who engage in violent acts, including incitement of violence. This follows recent violent unrest targeting foreign nationals in the province.
During a media briefing in George on Wednesday, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) assured citizens that the government remains firmly in control of the country’s security environment amid growing concerns over public violence, vigilantism, attacks on foreign nationals and illegal immigration.
Addressing the media, NATJOINTS Chairperson Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili revealed that over the past week, authorities arrested 166 individuals in the Free State for offences linked to public violence and related criminal activities. In the Western Cape, five suspects were arrested in connection with incidents of violence and intimidation.
Mosikili said more than 5,000 illegal immigrants had also been arrested for contravening the Immigration Act over the past three weeks. Since January 1, 2026, authorities have arrested 34,798 illegal immigrants nationwide, while 76,588 were arrested during the previous financial year.
“These arrests send a clear message; that those who incite violence, encourage vigilantism, threaten communities, destroy property or undermine public order will face the full consequences of the law,” added Mosikili
NATJOINTS condemned recent violence in Mossel Bay, which claimed two lives, and reiterated that law enforcement agencies remain on high alert to respond to any threats to public safety and stability.
Speaking in Mossel Bay yesterday, following violent protests against foreign nationals last week, Provincial police commissioner, Thembisile Patekile, emphasised that while it is within one’s democratic right to protest, it must be within the law. Patekile warned that once demonstrations incite violence and intimidation, police will act to disperse protesters.
Meanwhile, Authorities in the Overstrand area say shelter and protection have been provided to foreign nationals affected by recent incidents of intimidation in areas such as Kleinmond over the weekend, and subsequently in Gansbaai and Stanford since Monday.
Municipal facilities have been opened as temporary places of safety, as officials continue to prioritise the well-being of vulnerable individuals during ongoing tensions.
