The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) was deployed across all nine provinces on 30 June 2026 to support the South African Police Service (SAPS) in maintaining law and order during nationwide anti-illegal immigration protests. The deployment followed groups, including Operation Dudula and the ‘March and March’ movement, setting an unofficial deadline for undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country.
Law Enforcement And Military Support
While authorities initially reported that most demonstrations remained peaceful, the situation in Johannesburg turned volatile in the late evening when a vehicle was set alight in Hillbrow. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni confirmed that the military intervention was specifically requested to provide reinforcement to police units following this emergence of criminal activity.
“SANDF, as the chair indicated, is in support of the police in enforcing law and order in the country. We are already in nine provinces for any eventuality,” said Major-General Joseph Tyahalisi regarding the national deployment.
National Security And Context
The military presence was part of ‘Operation June 30,’ a security strategy implemented after months of planning to prevent the large-scale instability that occurred in July 2021. SAPS Deputy National Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tebello Mosikili emphasised that the state would not tolerate actions aimed at undermining the constitutional order.
The Republic of South Africa is governed by the rule of law, not by threats, fear or intimidation,” said Lieutenant-General Mosikili during a security briefing.
Authorities continue to monitor protest activity in hotspots including Durban and Johannesburg to prevent further escalation. Further updates regarding security operations will be provided by the South African Police Service as the situation remains under active observation.