South Africa Mobilizes Military to Combat Rising Crime and Gang Violence

Fri Feb 13 2026 18:13:34 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a crucial effort to address escalating crime and gang-related violence, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announces the deployment of troops to support police forces in key provinces affected by illegal mining and organized crime.

Amidst an alarming rise in criminal gang activity, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared the deployment of the South African National Defence Force to aid police operations. The military will focus its efforts in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces, areas most severely impacted by gang violence and illegal mining. Ramaphosa's initiative comes in response to criticism over police capability to handle the growing crime crisis, with plans to also recruit more police officers and enhance intelligence efforts.

South Africa Mobilizes Military to Combat Rising Crime and Gang Violence

In a significant move to address the escalating violence linked to crime gangs in South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the deployment of military troops to bolster police efforts in safeguarding citizens. This initiative specifically targets provinces experiencing severe gang activities and illegal mining operations, where law enforcement has struggled to maintain order.

Ramaphosa labeled organized crime as a pressing threat to the nation's democracy, security, and economic growth during his recent State of the Nation Address. He emphasized the urgent need for a robust response, declaring, I will be deploying the South African National Defence Force to support the police. The planned deployment will commence in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces, known for severe gang violence and illegal mining activities respectively.

Statistics underscore the severity of South Africa's crime crisis, revealing an alarming average of 63 murders daily last year. This situation has prompted authorities to express significant concern regarding the ability of the current police force to effectively combat organized crime. Police Minister Firoz Cachalia recently acknowledged the limitations of the police in addressing the rampant gang violence, marking a notable admission that highlights the urgency of the crisis.

In response to ongoing crime issues, President Ramaphosa outlined a comprehensive strategy, including the recruitment of 5,500 new police officers and enhanced intelligence operations targeting crime syndicates. The military's involvement is seen as a necessary measure to provide immediate relief to overburdened police forces and to restore order in communities affected by gang conflicts.

Ramaphosa's administration aims to not only tackle the immediate issues of gang violence but also address the deeper roots of organized crime linked to illegal mining. The deployment of troops is expected to commence shortly, with detailed planning set to unfold in the following days. Additionally, the president has called for a coordinated effort among military and police leaders to prioritize the deployment effectively.

The situation remains critical as residents in affected areas continue to endure the repercussions of escalating violence and insecurity. Authorities are challenged to restore peace and ensure safety for all South African citizens.