JOHANNESBURG - 30 June marks the day several anti-illegal immigration groups are expected to lead protests across the country, calling for action against undocumented migrants.
The South African Police Service, together with other law enforcement agencies, says it has undertaken extensive planning to ensure the protests remain safe and secure.
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7:32am
Police in the Eastern Cape have briefed the media ahead of the 30 June anti-migrant protests, confirming they will be on high alert across major cities.
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7:22am
As anti-illegal migrant marches get underway across the country, voluntary repatriations are continuing in Cape Town.
Those who have chosen to return to their home countries are being processed by Home Affairs at its Epping facility.
The City of Cape Town says its Safety and Security Directorate is working closely with the SAPS and Home Affairs to respond to any disruptions or unrest.
eNCA reporter Kevin Brandt has been monitoring the repatriation process.
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7:20am
Planned protests against illegal migration get underway this morning.
In Durban, activists are gathering at King Dinuzulu Park before marching through the city's streets.
Authorities will be closely monitoring the demonstrations to ensure they remain peaceful, with minimal disruption.
eNCA senior reporter Dasen Thathiah will be monitoring developments from the air as the day goes on.
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7:12am
Thousands of South Africans are expected to march across the country today.
The groups are demanding stricter enforcement of immigration laws and deportations of undocumented migrants.
In Johannesburg, we're tracking the March and March leg of the protest, starting from Beyers Naudé Square to Constitution Hill.
eNCA reporter Nabeelah Shaikh has the latest.
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6:57am
Johannesburg is on high alert as thousands are expected to take to the streets for several marches across the CBD, Hillbrow and Midrand.
While authorities say the demonstrations are lawful, they come against the backdrop of heightened tensions surrounding today's deadline.
At the same time, officials are warning the public against sharing unverified messages that could fuel panic and misinformation.
The JMPD's Xolani Fihla has more.
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6:20am
Foreign nationals are still awaiting transport home.
Many have spent days sleeping on buses or in the open, raising concerns about delays and conditions at the processing centres.
eNCA’s Nokwazi Qumbisa is in Durban with the latest developments.
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6:18am
Thousands of Malawian nationals remain stranded at temporary repatriation sites in Limpopo as they await transport home.
Many have spent days sleeping on buses or in the open, raising concerns about delays and conditions at the processing centres.
eNCA’s Moloko Moloto is at the temporary repatriation centre in Musina with the latest developments.
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6.02am
Santaco says taxis will operate normally despite widespread protests against illegal migration.
Santaco president Motlhabane Tsebe said their role is to provide transport and as such, operations will run as expected.
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6am
The country's law enforcement agencies are leaving nothing to chance ahead of the anti-migrant protests.
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures has declared its operational plans fully activated.
Natjoints Chairperson Tebello Mosikili says every law enforcer understands their mandate.
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6am
Road closure alert | From Midrand to Pretoria, here are routes to avoid on 30 June
Confirmed Pretoria march route
In the City of Tshwane, the Tshwane Metro Police confirmed streets that will be affected by the march, which is set to commence at 10am.
According to the metro police, marchers will gather at Church Square in Pretoria Central and proceed to Sunnyside.
Affected routes include :
- Church Square
- Paul Kruger Street
- Lilian Ngoyi Street
- Madiba Street
- Nelson Mandela Drive
- Kortze Street
- Van Boeschoten Avenue
- Robert Sobukwe Street
- Leyds Street
According to the Tshwane Metro Police, there will be alternative routes available.
- Nana Sita Street
- Visagie Street
- Justice Mahomed Street
- Jeff Masemola Street
- Johannes Ramokhoase Street
- Struben Street
- Bloed Street
- Kgosi Mampuru Street
- Eskia Mphahele Drive
Confirmed Johannesburg march route
Much like Tshwane, those traveling through and in Johannesburg have been urged to place ahead by the Johannesburg Metro Police Department.
According to JMPD, at least three legally approved marches have been scheduled to take place across key areas in the city, mainly the inner city of Johannesburg, Hillbrow and Midrand (Glen Autin).
The largest procession in the inner city is expected to draw approximately 5000 marchers who will begin the protest at 10 am until the afternoon and is expected.
JMPD said protestors in the inner city will focus on inner-city safety, youth development and access to community services.
Hilbrow march is expected to attract just over 100 participants, while Midrand is expected to to have 800 demonstrators
Affected routes
- Beyers Naudé Square
- Constitution Hill
- Helen Joseph Street
- Troye Street
- Twist Street
- Kotze Street
- Queen Plein
- Dale Road
- Modderfontein Road
- Sandton Plant Hire Offices