Security forces including SAPS, Metro Police, SANDF and private security companies were on high alert following rumours of a national shutdown and threats to attack government facilities, police stations and private security companies on Monday, 23 August. This follows the July Unrest which resulted in massive looting and destruction of businesses and retail outlets throughout the province, forcing many businesses to close down and thousands of job losses.
Several shopping centres, businesses and informal traders in Phoenix were closed for several hours of the morning amidst fears of the proposed violent march. Southgate Mall, where several shops were looted last month, was closed with a heavy private security presence surrounding the property while the Phoenix Plaza Shopping Centre had all its entrances and exits closed to the public for the morning. Social media was abuzz with posts from concerned residents with fears of possible violent marching and protests, however, all roads were clear and there were no violent incidents reported.
Speaking to the Phoenix Tabloid, Phoenix SAPS Spokesperson, Captain Louise Naidoo, said that a number of police vehicles were patrolling at strategic points and hotspots with the presence of the SANDF and Public Order Policing (POP). EThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, said everything was under control and residents need not fear. Mayor Kaunda held a meeting with the city’s law enforcement stakeholders on Friday where safety plans were consolidated. “I am satisfied with the level of planning and call on members of the public to remain calm as police are on top of the situation. We want to assure the people of eThekwini that all law enforcement agencies are working together to ensure that people’s lives and properties are protected and safe. We have also activated our community crime-fighting structures to work with police and share information timeously if they notice any suspicious activity in their communities,” said Mayor Kaunda.
Mayor Kaunda said Metro Police were maintaining a strong presence in all areas that had been identified as hotspots. “We also want to make a call to members of the public to desist from disseminating information that might cause panic and incite violence,” he said. Lieutenant Colonel, Robert Netshiunda, said that measures were put in place to ensure the safety of all South Africans. “The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS), is aware of inflammatory messages on various social media platforms advocating for violence. Those behind these messages are warned that inciting violence is a criminal offence. Members of the public are cautioned against spreading such divisive messages. Equally, a different set of messages is also doing the rounds where people are mobilising to respond to the supposed shutdown,” said Lt Col Netshiunda. Phoenix CPF Chairperson, Umesh Singh, warned residents to refrain from posting inciting messages on social media. “This will only cause undue stress on residents and carries either a fine or jail time. SAPS members are on duty and ready to keep communities safe. Residents should report any incidents to the Phoenix SAPS and remain calm,” said Singh.
