The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has deployed more than 500 troops to assist the South African Police Service (SAPS) in crime-affected communities in Gauteng, including Eldorado Park, Riverlea, and other areas plagued by gang violence and illegal mining operations.
The deployment follows a pledge made by President Cyril Ramaphosa to utilise the military in stabilising communities riddled with high levels of organised crime. Troops were observed on the ground in these Johannesburg suburbs, supporting police efforts to address gang-related shootings, turf wars, and associated criminal activities.
Deputy Defence and Military Veterans Minister General Bantu Holomisa emphasised that the SANDF’s role is strictly supportive. He stated that it remains the responsibility of the police to identify crime hotspots and request defence force assistance for specific operations. “We are there to assist the police. That’s all,” Holomisa said, adding that soldiers would not enter or surround townships independently without police involvement.
According to Holomisa, coordination on the ground places operational command with the SAPS. Police identify hotspots and call for SANDF support, ensuring joint efforts rather than unilateral military action. He noted that the President had informed the Speaker of Parliament of the decision, in line with constitutional requirements.
Concerns have been raised about the deployment, including whether parliamentary approval was necessary and who holds ultimate command in the field. Holomisa clarified that no additional parliamentary sign-off beyond the President’s notification was required, and the Minister of Police liaises on rules and regulations for these exercises.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia addressed preparations for the troops, highlighting legitimate concerns about risks associated with deploying soldiers not trained in policing. He explained that an orientation process—more than formal training—is underway to ensure soldiers understand their limited role, boundaries, and responsibilities. This includes emphasising gentle interactions with civilians, avoiding harassment, and allowing police to lead arrests and related duties.
The orientation occurs before deployment and continues with daily debriefs after operations to prevent deviations from procedures. Holomisa described it as awareness training focused on dealing with civilians who may be shocked by the presence of soldiers.
On the potential for exchanges of fire in volatile areas—where incidents like crossfire have previously injured children—Holomisa stated that both soldiers and police are trained to handle armed threats. Warnings would be issued, including loudhailer announcements to cordon areas and seek cooperation. He stressed that soldiers carry weapons suited for combat but know how to use them appropriately in built-up community settings, with the primary goal of protecting themselves and supporting police without indiscriminate action.
Holomisa declined to detail specific tactics or weapon calibers on air, citing the need to avoid educating criminals, but reiterated that soldiers are trained to respond proportionally to threats.
The deputy minister has not yet personally visited the deployed troops but plans to do so for political oversight. Operational matters are currently handled by SANDF commanders following the President’s directive.
Holomisa expressed confidence in the operation but cautioned that success depends on community cooperation and the non-cooperation of criminals. He warned that failure could occur if those involved in crime resist. He stressed the need for broader support from institutions like the National Prosecuting Authority and courts to target kingpins, disrupt drug supply chains from regions like South America and Asia, curb illicit trade, and address sources of fake goods. The aim is to avoid repeated deployments by breaking criminal networks at higher levels rather than focusing solely on street-level users.
The deployment, part of a wider effort to combat organised crime, is expected to run for a period that could extend up to a year in some phases, with military assistance serving as a temporary stabilisation measure.