The Western Cape Government says it is working closely together with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other security services to ensure law and order is maintained in province in the wake of civil unrest in South Africa.
On Tuesday the expanded provincial cabinet met to receive a special briefing by the provincial leadership of the SAPS, led by the Provincial Commissioner, Lt. General Patekile, on its preparation to respond to public unrest in the Western Cape.
During the briefing Lt. General Patekile confirmed that the Western Cape has recorded no incidents of looting and that there is relative calm.
A detailed, multi-pronged strategy has been put in place to respond to all potential risks, and to ensure the necessary SAPS resources maintain law and order.
Additional resources have also been deployed to potential hotspots, and the SAPS have assured a quick response to any attempt to undermine law and order in the Western Cape.
“The Western Cape Government, SAPS, the City’s Metro Police, Law Enforcement officers, Traffic Officers, as well as other security services are working closely together to ensure that the rule of law is maintained in the Western Cape. I want to again reiterate my call to all our residents to remain calm, to reject violence and incitement, and to respect the law. We are busy fighting a deadly third wave of COVID-19 infections, while trying to roll-out life-saving vaccines. We must make sure we can continue with this important work, so that we save both lives and jobs.” Premier Alan Winde said.
The Provincial Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz concurred also called on residents to remain calm at this time.