SOUTH AFRICA - LAW ENFORCEMENT ON HIGH ALERT AMID THREATS OF 'NATIONAL SHUTDOWN' ON MONDAY 23 AUGUST

Law Enforcement Agencies are on high alert and have through the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJOINTS), put measures in place to ensure the safety and security of South Africans amidst threats of a "National Shutdown" on 23 August 2021.

The 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.

Equally, a different set of messages is also doing the rounds where people are mobilising to respond to the supposed shutdown.

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.

Law abiding citizens should be at ease knowing that the NatJOINTS is not taking these threats lightly. Security forces are on high alert and ready to maintain stability in the country, and ensure the safety and security of South Africans.

The NatJOINTS reminds the public that South Africa is still on Adjusted Alert Level 3 Lockdown, and calls for maximum adherence to the Regulations and Covid-19 health protocols. Currently outdoor gatherings are limited to 100 persons.

SAPS