South Africa police prepare for June 30 protests

South African security officials are intensifying preparations for nationwide demonstrations scheduled for June 30, amid heightened tensions over illegal immigration. Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia is meeting with Defence Minister Angie Motshekga in Johannesburg on Monday to finalize security strategies, following a series of high-level briefings over the weekend.

The planned protests stem from an ultimatum issued by anti-illegal immigration groups, which have demanded that undocumented foreign nationals leave the country by the end of June. President Cyril Ramaphosa has publicly dismissed the deadline, characterizing it as an attempt by some to exploit the immigration debate to create disorder.

Authorities are deploying police forces across the country this week in anticipation of the demonstrations. Minister Cachalia stated he is satisfied with the police's readiness for a large-scale deployment. He emphasized that while the constitutional right to peaceful protest will be protected, any acts of lawlessness, violence, intimidation, or criminality will not be tolerated. Cachalia expressed concern that rogue elements within protest movements could escalate the situation...