South Africa Deploys Army to Combat Soaring Crime in Major Cities
In a significant move for one of Africa's leading democracies, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared plans to deploy the army to high-crime areas across the nation. This decision aims to tackle the severe issues of organized crime, gang violence, and illegal mining, which Ramaphosa describes as the "most immediate threat" to the country's democracy and economic progress. The deployment will occur in three of South Africa's nine provinces, though a specific timeline has not been provided.
Cape Town's Gang Violence Crisis
Cape Town, a top tourist destination with a population of approximately 3.8 million, is marred by intense gang violence in its outskirts, particularly the Cape Flats. Street gangs like the Americans, the Hard Livings, and the Terrible Josters have long battled for control over the illegal drug trade, engaging in extortion, prostitution, and contract killings. Innocent bystanders, including children, are frequently caught in crossfire and killed. Recent crime statistics reveal that the three police precincts with the highest crime rates in South Africa are all located in and around Cape Town. The Western Cape province, home to Cape Town, accounts for about 90% of the country's gang-related killings.
Illegal Mining Syndicates in Gauteng
In Gauteng province, which includes Johannesburg, illegal gold mining operations run by organized crime syndicates, known as zama zamas, pose a major threat. These heavily armed groups exploit abandoned mine shafts, using impoverished individuals to extract leftover precious deposits. The gangs are linked to high-profile violence, such as a 2022 case where 80 alleged illegal miners were accused of gang-raping eight women during a music video shoot. Last year, a police standoff resulted in at least 87 miner deaths after authorities cut off food supplies. Analysts estimate 30,000 illegal miners operate in South Africa's 6,000 abandoned shafts, with the trade valued at over $4 billion annually in lost gold, often controlled by migrants from Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
Historical Context and Expert Concerns
Ramaphosa is mindful of South Africa's apartheid past, where troops were used to suppress protests, and emphasizes that the army will not be deployed "without a good reason." He asserts that the surge in violent organized crime necessitates this action to protect public safety and state authority. The army will operate under police command, similar to past deployments in 2023 for truck burnings and 2021 for riots following Jacob Zuma's imprisonment. However, crime experts warn that military involvement is not a long-term solution, as soldiers lack expertise in domestic law enforcement. Police Minister Firoz Cachalia supports the plan, stating it is time-limited and aims to stabilize areas where lives are lost daily.
