Limpopo police say there will be no shutdown during the planned June 30 protests in Limpopo, despite heightened tensions over illegal immigration and the safety of foreign nationals.

Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said SAPS has activated operational plans across the province. She warned that violence, intimidation, road blockades and vigilantism will not be tolerated.

Limpopo Police Deploy Ahead of June 30 Protests

According to IOL, Hadebe said the Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure, known as PROVJOINTS, has intensified planning with SAPS and other security partners.

Police have deployed a heightened presence in identified areas. These include major routes, business districts, ports of entry and critical infrastructure. Hadebe said officers will maintain public order and respond quickly to any incidents.

“The South African Police Service is fully operational, adequately resourced and prepared to police any planned demonstrations across Limpopo,” Hadebe said, according to IOL.

She added: “There will be no shutdown of the province.” Essential services, businesses, ports of entry and economic activity will continue, she said.

SAPS Warns Against Vigilantism And Xenophobia

The June 30 protests in Limpopo form part of wider demonstrations linked to calls for action against undocumented migration.

According to EWN, more than 20 organisations involved in the nationwide demonstrations say their campaign targets illegal immigration and not foreign nationals. However, rights concerns have grown as migrants report fear and insecurity ahead of the deadline.

Hadebe said SAPS respects the constitutional right to peaceful protest. However, she warned that police will act against violence, intimidation, looting, malicious damage to property, road blockades and attacks on businesses.

She also said no individual, organisation or community structure has the authority to enforce immigration laws. Immigration enforcement remains the responsibility of authorised state agencies, including Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority.

National Police Remain On Alert

The planned June 30 protests in Limpopo come as police prepare for demonstrations in other provinces.

EWN reported that Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said SAPS had identified potential violence hotspots nationally, although he did not reveal the locations. He said law enforcement agencies were monitoring intelligence and preparing for any threat.

“We are going to do everything to ensure that June 30 is a normal day,” Cachalia said, according to EWN.

The Associated Press reported that thousands of African migrants have left South Africa or gathered near shelters and embassies as anti-immigration tensions rise. It also reported that South African authorities remain on high alert ahead of the June 30 deadline set by protest groups.

Hadebe urged Limpopo residents to remain calm, continue with normal activities and avoid sharing unverified information. She asked communities to report criminal activity to the nearest police station or anonymously through Crime Stop on 08600 10111.