​Lerato Mailoane
Gauteng law enforcement agencies are on high alert to ensure the safety and security of the public amidst threats of a national shutdown.
This is in response to the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS) alert on potential violence in the country.
NatJOINTS said it has noted inflammatory messages which surfaced on various social media platforms advocating for violence.
On Sunday, Gauteng Premier David Makhura urged the people of Gauteng to abide by the law and report any suspicious activity to the police.
"I call on the people of Gauteng to work with the police and Community Policing Forums to ensure that no acts of violence and criminality see the light of day in our communities. Law enforcement agencies stand ready to defend institutions of democracy and protect economic infrastructure," Premier Makhura said.
The Premier assured residents that law enforcement agencies will remain on high alert to maintain law and order in Gauteng.
NatJOINTS warned that inciting violence is a criminal offence and cautioned the public 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.
"The public is urged not to respond to calls for violence and criminality and are thus discouraged from participating in activities that seek to defy the rule of law and undermine the authority of the State, NatJOINTS spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Netshiunda said.
Community Police Forums (CPF) and related sub-forums have been called to work with the police and to mobilise the community against any form of lawlessness.
"Law-abiding citizens should be at ease knowing that the NatJOINTS is not taking these threats lightly. Security forces are on high alert and ready to maintain stability in the country, and ensure the safety and security of South Africans," Netshiunda said.
The NatJOINTS also reminded the public that South Africa is still on Adjusted Alert Level 3 Lockdown and called for maximum adherence to the Regulations and COVID-19 health protocols.
Outdoor gatherings are currently limited to 100 persons. ENDS ​