BLOEMFONTEIN, FREE STATE — The Free State Police have confirmed they are fully prepared for the June 30 anti-immigration protests, assuring residents and businesses that normalcy will prevail across the province. Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia outlined the comprehensive security measures in place as the South African Police Service (SAPS) executes a R600 million national operation aimed at preventing lawlessness during the planned demonstrations.
Speaking on the readiness of the province, Lesia stated that the police and the broader security cluster have been closely monitoring the situation. While there are no serious concerns at this stage, uncompromising measures have been activated to protect both local citizens and those traveling through the region. Operational plans have been fully implemented, with crime intelligence deployed to identify potential hotspots and the Hawks brought in to monitor for any unlawful activity.
Addressing the threat of violence, Lesia noted that while the majority of previous protests in the Free State have been peaceful, law enforcement is taking cues from past incidents where criminal elements attempted to take advantage of peaceful gatherings. To counter this, a multi-agency approach has been adopted. The entire security cluster—including various government departments, private security companies, the Department of Home Affairs, the military, and the air force wing—will act as force multipliers.
Police personnel will be deployed at strategic points throughout the province to ensure communities remain safe. Lesia emphasized that citizens have the right to freedom of movement and assured the public that it will be a normal day in the Free State.
This assurance is particularly significant for businesses relying on major transport corridors. Lesia confirmed that there will be no disruptions to the N1, N3, N5, and N8 highways, ensuring that freight and passenger movement remains free. Furthermore, normal movement is expected at the province’s borders, including the south-eastern border areas, with specific plans in place to prevent any cross-border agitation.
When questioned about his high level of confidence regarding the safety of the province, Lesia attributed it to the robust operational plans that have been finalized. While he declined to divulge specific tactical details for security reasons, he assured the public that the police are fully prepared to respond swiftly to any eventuality.
