South Africa's Army Steps In to Combat Crime Gangs

Sat Feb 14 2026 01:27:53 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

With gang violence on the rise, South Africa deploys military forces in multiple provinces to support law enforcement in a nationwide crime battle.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the deployment of the South African National Defence Force to assist police in combating rampant gang violence and illegal mining. During his recent State of the Nation Address, he identified organized crime as a significant threat to the nation, prompting immediate military action in regions like Western Cape and Gauteng. Additional measures include recruiting new police officers and enhancing intelligence to tackle crime syndicates effectively. The military aid reflects the government's commitment to restoring safety in areas plagued by gang-related activities.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a crucial step to address gang violence in the country by deploying the army to assist police in their fight against criminal organizations and illegal mining activities. In his recent State of the Nation Address, Ramaphosa pointed out that gang violence has become a major issue, contributing to one of the highest murder rates globally.

“Organized crime poses the most immediate threat to our democracy, society, and economic growth,” Ramaphosa stated, emphasizing the growing urgency of the situation.

The deployment will commence in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces, regions severely affected by gang violence and illegal mining operations. Ramaphosa’s plan includes collaborating with police and military leaders to determine the most effective course of action as soon as possible.

Highlighting the dire consequences of gang wars, he noted that children in the Western Cape are often caught in the crossfire and that illegal miners are forcing residents out of their homes in Gauteng.

Authorities have linked illegal mining operations, often managed by armed foreign nationals known as "zama zamas," to organized crime syndicates. In addition to military deployment, Ramaphosa plans to recruit 5,500 new police officers and strengthen crime-fighting intelligence.

South Africa has faced challenges with entrenched organized crime for years, with police reports indicating an average of 63 murders daily during certain periods last year. The new military presence aims to restore order and safety while bolstering law enforcement efforts across the nation.