Deputy Defence Minister General Bantu Holomisa announced that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is prepared to deploy troops to support the South African Police Service (SAPS) in combating gang violence and illegal mining in the provinces of Gauteng and the Western Cape. This comes after a directive from President Cyril Ramaphosa, who emphasized the need for enhanced security measures amidst rising concerns over criminal activities in these areas.

Operational preparations for this deployment are already in motion, with Holomisa stating that they are awaiting formal approval from Parliament before proceeding. The expectation is that once they receive the necessary parliamentary endorsement, troop movements could commence within two weeks. The collaboration between the SANDF and SAPS aims to increase the effectiveness of law enforcement operations against organized crime, specifically targeting gangs involved in violence and illegal mining practices.

In light of the President's directive, the Ministers of Police and Defence are tasked with developing a tactical deployment plan. This plan will identify priority areas for intervention, ensuring the SANDF's efforts complement ongoing police work. The urgency of the situation reflects broader concerns regarding the impact of gang violence and illegal mining on community safety and socio-economic stability in both provinces, prompting decisive government action.