At least 2,200 soldiers have been deployed to work alongside the police following authorisation by president Cyril Ramaphosa. SANDF members will assist the police in preventing and combating illegal mining and gangsterism in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, North West, and Western Cape, said president’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya.

The deployment forms part of Operation Prosper and is aimed at preventing crime while supporting law enforcement efforts to maintain law and order. The operation started on will run from 1 March 2026 until 31 March 2027.

Constitution

The decision is in line with the Constitution. Section 201(2)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, directs that “Only the President, as head of the national executive, may authorise the employment of the defence force in co-operation with the police service.”

Expenditure for the deployment is estimated at R823,153,960. The decision has sparked mixed reactions from politicians and communities affected by crime and illegal mining.

Reacting to the State of the Nation Address, Julius Malema, leader of the EFF, said the move reflects serious failures within the police.

“Gangsterism has taken over the streets of our townships, and that is a confirmation the police have dismally failed. The president is just scared to say they’ve lost confidence in the police, hence the army, and we are happy the army is coming. We are going to restore law and order.”

In North West, premier Lazarus Mokgosi welcomed the deployment during his State of the Province Address, particularly to tackle illegal mining in communities such as Bapong village near Brits.

The area has recently emerged as an illegal mining hotspot, with residents reporting illicit miners are digging dangerously close to homes. Messages circulating on social media have highlighted growing fears among community members.

Meanwhile, Thanduxolo Khalipha, mayor of Matjhabeng Local Municipality in the Free State, also said he would welcome the deployment of soldiers to address illegal mining, which has affected local water infrastructure for years.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg