The strike is set to be a protest against the employment of foreign nationals, among other issues.

National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says police have mobilised all their resources to prevent and combat any form of lawlessness.

Last month, EFF members voiced their disappointment with the national government's reaction to their national shutdown, where police, private security companies and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) were mobilised to maintain order during protests.

Provincial EFF chairperson Mapheule Liphoko said police visibility at the time was shocking.

"This is the same police that are not around when the crime stats are high, and all of a sudden they are well equipped and well-staffed."

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Mathe says the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure has been meeting daily to monitor the situation associated with risks since truck drivers announced their planned strike.

"Multi-disciplinary joint law enforcement operations are underway, and law enforcement officers have been deployed and are on high alert to heighten police visibility to prevent and combat any form of criminality.

Private security companies, through the SAPS E2 project (eyes and ears), have also pledged their support in working together ."

"Natjoints assures the nation that no lawlessness in the form of barricading of roads, torching of trucks, or looting of goods from those operating will be tolerated," she said.

Mathe called on those who will be participating in today’s strike to do so peacefully and respect those who do not wish to partake in the strike. She warned that law enforcement agencies would not hesitate to deal with those found on the wrong side of the law. Mathe further assured the public that while the law will be applied, people's freedom of movement will not be prohibited to ensure stability prevails throughout the country.

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