On the eve of the release of the SA Human Rights Commission reports into the July 2021 unrest, I, like hundreds of South Africans, who witnessed the mayhem and anarchy, wait with bated breath for the recommendations.
The events of that month not only resulted in devastating loss of life and property but also exposed critical shortcomings in our country's ability to maintain law and order during times of crisis.
However, two and a half years later the state has failed to initiate a comprehensive reassessment of our security protocols and strategic planning, or take any action to put in place adequate measures to prevent or control a repeat of the widespread unrest that gripped KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.
This, despite the hard-hitting evidence — in particular the police’s inability to address and control the unrest — revealed during the SAHRC hearings into the unrest.
It is imperative that the SAHRC recommends that urgent and decisive action be taken to address these deficiencies and ensure the safety and security of our communities.
First and foremost, it is essential that law enforcement agencies are adequately equipped and trained to effectively handle large-scale civil unrest.
This includes having the necessary resources, such as personnel, vehicles and specialised equipment, as well as robust communication and co-ordination mechanisms to swiftly deploy and co-ordinate response efforts across affected areas.
Furthermore, proactive intelligence gathering and analysis must be prioritised to identify and mitigate potential flashpoints before they escalate into full-blown crises.
By closely monitoring social, economic and political developments, police in collaboration with private security agencies can better anticipate and prepare for situations that have the potential to spark widespread unrest.
In addition to strengthening the capabilities of state law enforcement, there is a critical need for increased collaboration between private security agencies, local communities, and businesses.
Building strong partnerships and communication channels can enhance the collective ability to detect, deter and respond to threats, ultimately fostering a more resilient and secure society.
Communities should not be forced to protect themselves.
It is crucial that these recommendations are made immediately as there is widespread speculation that the current water woes that South Africans and the destruction and vandalism of key infrastructure and network systems are an extension of the “state sabotage” that occurred in 2021.
As a security specialist, who has boots on the ground, I can testify to communities being on tenterhooks. The two reports, to be released on January 29, must give them confidence that their safety is a priority to the state.
- The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) will on Monday January 28 2023 present their 2021 July Unrest Investigative hearings reports.
— Parshotam is founder of Dragon Protection Services, a national private security organisation
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