Security forces on high alert for violence

Security forces say they are on high alert and ready to maintain stability in the country amid threats of a national shutdown on Monday.

Law enforcement agencies said they had put measures in place through the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJoints) to ensure the safety and security of all South Africans.

Though the threats were generally being regarded as “fake news” on social media, the security cluster seems to be taking them seriously this time around after they were caught napping in July when protests against the jailing of former president Jacob Zuma quickly morphed into widespread looting and violence that left more than 337 people dead.

“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,” its spokesperson, Lt-Col Robert Netshiunda, said on Sunday.

SHUTDOWN

Netshiunda said also doing the rounds were messages urging people to mobilise against the supposed shutdown.

Police have urged the public to ignore such calls.

“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.

“We are calling on community police forums and related sub-forums to work with the police, as they usually do, and to mobilise the community against any form of lawlessness,” Netshiunda said.

“Law-abiding citizens should be at ease knowing that NatJoints is not taking these threats lightly.”

NatJoints warned that adjusted alert level 3 regulations remain in place. “Currently, outdoor gatherings are limited to 100 persons,” Netshiunda said.

Last week, KwaZulu-Natal premier Sihle Zikalala denied claims about a possible shutdown of the province. He said posts and posters were circulated on social media alleging a total shutdown would happen on August 23.

FAKE NEWS

Speaking at a briefing last Sunday regarding the Covid-19 pandemic in the province, he said talk of a possible shutdown was a distraction and fake news.

“We don’t want to be distracted by fake news and we are not taking anything for granted,” said Zikalala.

“We have received, and some people have reported, posters circulating on social media saying on August 23 there will be a shutdown. We have reported this to law enforcement agencies and we believe they are ready.”