More blockades expected

A FEW days ago, parliament put out a short statement to the effect that President Cyril Ramaphosa had informed the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces that he had deployed the army within the borders of the Republic.

According to the statement, 2 700 soldiers would assist the police for a three-month period from December 18 to prevent and combat crime as well as preserve law and order within the country.

The cost of the deployment would amount to just under R234 million.

A few days later, Defenceweb, an online news site that focuses on military matters, reported that several units from KwaZulu-Natal were working with the police to patrol the N2 between Durban and Mtubatuba, and the N3 from Durban to Van Reenen. There were soldiers stationed at eight toll plazas, and they were backed up by the 44th Parachute Regiment as well as aeroplanes from the 28th Squadron.

Other units with recovery vehicles were also on standby, as was helicopter support from Durban’s 15th Squadron.

It is worrying that government is expecting further blockades on major roads. But it is also a good sign that they finally have a plan and the muscle to deal with those who break the law. The next step is to ensure there are consequences for those who instigate violence and put lives and livelihoods at risk.