Ramaphosa deploys 510 soldiers to KZN amid anti-immigrant violence

President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised the deployment of 510 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members to KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), which is estimated to cost R34 million.

The deployment is expected to support police efforts amid escalating unrest linked to misinformation surrounding a Constitutional Court judgment on the Refugee Act.

Ramaphosa has informed parliament that he decided to deploy soldiers to maintain law and order amid recent violence in the province.

The members of the SANDF will assist the SAPS to maintain law and order in KZN, especially in light of recent violent actions arising from a campaign of misinformation about the Constitutional Court judgment on the Refugee Act. The members of the SANDF will be on standby to support the police for any eventuality that may occur.

The Presidency has formally notified National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza and National Council of Provinces Chairperson Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane of the deployment.