South Africa Deploys Army to Support Police in Crackdown on Organised Crime

ADDIS ABABA / JOHANNESBURG, Feb 12 (TVOA) — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the deployment of the military to assist police in combating escalating organised crime, describing criminal syndicates as the most immediate threat to the country’s democracy and economic stability.

Speaking on Thursday, Ramaphosa said South Africa could no longer “tread softly” in confronting gang violence, illegal mining networks, drug trafficking operations and other forms of organised criminal activity that have intensified in recent months.

“Organised crime is now the most immediate threat to our democracy, our society and our economic development,” Ramaphosa said. “We must act with zero tolerance and bring the full force of the law to bear. There will be no impunity for acts of criminality and corruption.”

Army Deployment to Reinforce Law Enforcement

The decision will see members of the South African National Defence Force deployed to support law enforcement operations in high-risk areas, particularly urban centres affected by gang-related violence and illicit economic activities.

Authorities say the military’s role will focus on logistical support, intelligence coordination, and stabilisation operations alongside police units.

The announcement comes amid mounting public pressure over crime levels. South Africa continues to record one of the highest homicide rates globally, with an estimated 60 murders reported daily, according to official figures.

Gang-related shootings, turf wars linked to narcotics distribution, and violent disputes surrounding illegal mining operations have contributed significantly to the surge.

Additional Security Measures

In addition to deploying the army, Ramaphosa announced the recruitment of approximately 5,500 new police officers as part of a broader security reinforcement plan.

Government officials say the strategy aims to:

• Disrupt organised criminal networks

• Increase visible policing in high-risk communities

• Strengthen prosecution of syndicate leaders

• Combat corruption linked to criminal enterprises

The administration has framed the initiative as essential not only for public safety but also for restoring investor confidence and safeguarding economic development.

Political and Economic Implications

Crime has become a central issue in domestic politics, with opposition parties and civil society groups demanding stronger enforcement and accountability mechanisms.

Business leaders have also raised concerns about the economic cost of criminal activity, including infrastructure sabotage, theft, and supply chain disruption.

Ramaphosa emphasised that organised crime undermines governance structures and weakens public institutions, stating that security reform would remain a top priority for 2026.

Broader Regional Context

The move comes as several African countries reassess internal security strategies amid rising cross-border criminal networks, including trafficking routes that span Southern Africa.

South Africa, as the continent’s most industrialised economy, faces particular pressure to stabilise domestic conditions while maintaining regional leadership.

The government has not specified how long the army deployment will remain in place, but officials say operations will continue until measurable reductions in organised crime activity are achieved.

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