SANDF To Receive R800 Million Boost For Anti-Crime Deployment Across Provinces

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is expected to receive more than R800 million to support the deployment of troops assisting police in crime-fighting efforts in several provinces.

The operation forms part of a broader collaboration between the SANDF and the South African Police Service (SAPS) aimed at strengthening law enforcement capacity in areas struggling with criminal activity.

Initially, President Cyril Ramaphosa indicated during his State of the Nation Address that the military would mainly assist authorities in Gauteng and the Western Cape.

Expanded SANDF Crime-Fighting Deployment Now Includes Free State

The scope of the deployment has since widened beyond the provinces originally mentioned by the President.

Authorities confirmed that the joint operation will now also extend to the Free State, where troops will assist law enforcement agencies in tackling illegal mining operations.

The Joint Standing Committee on Defence held a meeting on Friday to receive an update on the SANDF’s readiness for the mission.

Parliament heard that soldiers involved in the operation are currently undergoing specialised preparation designed to ensure they are properly equipped to interact with civilians while carrying out their duties.

R800 Million Budget Requirement For SANDF Operation

Acting Secretary of Defence Thobekile Gamede briefed Members of Parliament about the financial implications of the deployment.

“It’s almost above R800 million,” Gamede stated. “It is in the employment papers that have already been submitted to the Minister, and I’ve learnt that the employment papers are already with the President. Once the President signs the papers, they will be sent to the National Treasury.”

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Bullying Heartbreak: Wesbank Grade R Girl ‘Too Scared’ To Go To School, Mom Speaks Out

Despite the significant cost, officials indicated that funding for the mission has not yet been formally allocated.

Because the deployment was announced after the national budget had already been approved, the Department of Defence will initially have to rely on other available resources to cover the expenses until formal funding arrangements are made.