South Africa Deploys Soldiers To Assist Police Tackle Organised And Violent Crime
Dozens of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) personnel were deployed on the streets of Johannesburg on Wednesday as part of a government push to curb gang violence and illegal mining in the country’s largest city.
Armoured vehicles carrying soldiers were seen moving through Westbury, searching properties for contraband and illegal firearms.
The operation follows a pledge by President Cyril Ramaphosa last month to bolster police efforts with military support in crime-ridden areas.
The SANDF began patrols in Eldorado Park before moving through Riverlea and Westbury, working alongside members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) to search homes and identify properties linked to gang activity.
Residents of Westbury, who have long complained of persistent shootings and gang-related violence, welcomed the increased presence but expressed concern over how long the deployment might last.
Police officials said parts of the national deployment could continue for more than a year.
South Africa continues to struggle with high levels of violent crime. Police reported 6,351 homicides from October to December 2025 alone, averaging nearly 70 deaths a day in a country of approximately 62 million people.
