In South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken a decisive step by ordering the deployment of military troops to support the police in combating illegal mining and escalating gang violence. This announcement, made on February 13, 2026, comes as crime rates in Gauteng and other provinces have reached critical levels.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies to dismantle criminal networks responsible for this unrest. Illegal mining has emerged as a significant issue, with gangs exploiting unauthorized extraction activities, which are further aggravated by violent conflicts among rival groups. This situation not only endangers public safety but also threatens economic stability in the region.
The government’s strategic move aims to:
- Strengthen security in affected areas
- Restore public order
- Disrupt criminal operations
- Protect vulnerable communities from violence
This military intervention underscores the gravity of the crisis and highlights the necessity of a coordinated response. Officials believe that a joint effort between the army and police will be more effective in tackling these interconnected issues.
Moreover, this deployment is part of a broader crime-combat strategy designed to comprehensively address the challenges facing South Africa. President Ramaphosa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating safer environments for all citizens while encouraging lawful mining activities.
Stay tuned to Questiqa World News for the latest updates on this developing situation.
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