Durban – Security has been stepped up across Durban as South Africa hosts the 46th Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), with police, defence and other law enforcement agencies deployed to protect heads of state, delegates, residents and visitors.
The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) is coordinating the security operation, with South Africa expected to welcome 12 heads of state and government, as well as delegations from across the region.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said heightened security operations had been activated across the city ahead of and during the summit.
SAPS Deputy National Commissioner for Policing and NATJOINTS Chairperson Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili said authorities had completed comprehensive preparations for the event.
“Comprehensive security plans have already been activated. All law enforcement, intelligence and emergency services are working together to ensure the successful hosting of this important regional event,” Mosikili said.
Security deployments include the airport, major highways, summit venues and other strategic locations across Durban.
SAPS members are working alongside the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Durban Metro Police, traffic law enforcement officials, the National Traffic Police Intervention Unit, National Airport Security and private security personnel.
Police said the teams had been coordinating their respective roles to maintain law and order and ensure the safe movement of delegates throughout the summit programme.
The operation includes the protection of arriving delegates at the airport, increased police visibility along designated routes and security at summit venues.
SAPS said law enforcement and emergency personnel were working around the clock as part of the security operation.
The heightened deployment is also intended to provide reassurance to residents and visitors in KwaZulu-Natal while the regional gathering is under way.
Police said officers and their law enforcement partners remained prepared to respond to security threats and ensure the summit is conducted in a safe environment.
“The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) is fully prepared for the Summit,” SAPS said, adding that all participating agencies were working together to ensure the successful hosting of the regional event.
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Compliled by Betha Madhomu
