Ramaphosa Extends SANDF Deployment Until 31 July To Support Police Nationwide

President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised the deployment of 3,405 members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to support police operations across the country following illegal migrant protests and concerns over potential violence.

The deployment began on 28 June and will remain in place until 31 July. Government says the operation is aimed at maintaining law and order nationwide.

Ramaphosa Approves SANDF Deployment Across South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa formally notified Parliament of the deployment in a letter to National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, which was published on Friday.

In line with the Constitution, Ramaphosa informed Parliament that 3,405 SANDF members would be deployed in cooperation with the South African Police Service (SAPS).

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According to the letter dated 30 June, the soldiers have been deployed to assist in preventing and combating crime while preserving law and order throughout the country.

SANDF Deployment Linked To Operation Prosper

The SANDF deployment forms part of Operation Prosper, which allows for heightened security measures when required. Soldiers have been deployed across all nine provinces to support law enforcement where necessary.

In his letter, Ramaphosa said the deployment is “to prevent and combat crime and maintain and preserve law and order in the country”.

The military presence follows weeks of demonstrations linked to illegal migration, with authorities seeking to strengthen security measures in areas where tensions remain high.

R54 Million Allocated For SANDF Operation

The deployment of the SANDF is expected to cost approximately R54 million for the period ending 31 July.

This expenditure comes in addition to the South African Police Service’s reported R600 million budget allocated for policing Tuesday’s nationwide protests.

Although the demonstrations were largely peaceful, authorities recorded several looting incidents in some provinces, prompting continued security operations.