Minister Marais calls for a strategic, intelligence approach to SANDF Deployment
Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety, Anroux Marais, has welcomed the indication by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Western Cape that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members could be deployed in the province by 1 April 2026.
This development brings much-needed clarity on the deployment timelines.
Minister Marais emphasised that while increased visibility of law enforcement is important in stabilising communities, this deployment must go far beyond a show of force.
“This intervention must be collaborative, intelligence-led, data-driven, and operationally focused. We need coordinated plans that will actively dismantle criminal networks, gangs, and extortion groupings that continue to terrorise our communities. Equally as important is the need to include all local law enforcement structures to ensure a fully coordinated approach to break the back of organised crime and gangs.”
Minister Marais further called on SAPS to fully utilise this opportunity to ensure that operations lead not only to arrests but also to successful prosecutions.
“We must ensure that those responsible for violence, extortion, and organised crime are removed from our communities permanently through effective investigation and prosecution,” she added.
Minister Marais also urged residents across the Western Cape to play an active role in supporting law enforcement efforts.
“Our communities are critical partners in the fight against crime. We urge residents to come forward with information. To report where illegal firearms are being hidden, identify those responsible for shootings, and point out drug and gang houses, and other criminal activities. This information is vital in ensuring that operations target the root of criminal networks.”
Residents are encouraged to make use of the following anonymous reporting platforms:
- SAPS Crime Stop (Toll-Free): 08600 10111
- MySAPS Mobile Application
- City of Cape Town Crime Tip-Off Line: 0800 110 077
“All information will be treated confidentially. By working together, we can ensure safer communities for all,” Minister Marais concluded.
Media Enquiries:
Kurt Nefdt
Acting MLO to Minister Anroux Marais
0842851975