The “March and March” protest actions and threats of a shutdown on the 30th of June 2026 caused concern and fear amongst the public. Law enforcement agencies, in close cooperation with the Private Security Industry, were thoroughly prepared for all possible threats and scenarios, and all measures were in place to secure law abiding citizens and businesses during this period.

The period before and after 30 June was effectively policed, with minimal incidents reported in the Tshwane area, including Centurion. Monitor Net is proud to have once again been part of the joint operational command structure that assisted the SA Police service in managing this volatile period.

The “March and March” movement, however, stated that they will continue protest actions until they are satisfied that their demands have been adhered to by the Government.

The movement is keeping to this statement, and the next “shutdown” is already announced to happen on the 30th of September 2026. We can expect much more of these protest actions and disruptions. The March and March movement is one source, and with the Local Government elections coming up in November 2026, service delivery protests and political campaigns relating to the elections will most definitely have a huge impact on our daily lives.

While peaceful protest is a constitutional right, situations can change quickly, and authorities consistently advise participants and the public to remain peaceful and obey the law.

Be proactive, and if you plan to attend, work near or travel through areas where marches or demonstrations are taking place in South Africa, taking sensible precautions can help reduce your risk.

Guidelines to Help Reduce Risk

Before Leaving Home

• Check trusted news sources and traffic updates, along with official police or municipal social media channels, for road closures and march routes.
• Plan an alternative travel route and allow extra travel time.
• Ensure your cellphone is fully charged and carry a power bank.
• Inform a family member or colleague of your planned route and expected arrival time.

While Travelling

• Avoid known protest routes and gathering points.
• Keep the radio on, and listen to updates of protest actions, where protest actions are occurring, and routes that are influenced.
• If possible, postpone non-essential travel through affected areas.
• Keep vehicle doors locked, and windows closed in slow-moving traffic.
• Maintain enough fuel in your vehicle in case you need to take a longer route.

If You Encounter a Protest Unexpectedly

• Do not attempt to drive or walk through a crowd.
• Do not provoke protestors and never get involved.
• Turn around safely and leave the area using an alternative route.
• Stay calm and avoid arguments or confrontations with protesters.
• Follow directions from SAPS, Metro Police, Private Security service providers or other emergency personnel.

Personal Safety

• Always remain aware of your surroundings.
• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight.
• Avoid taking photographs or videos if doing so could attract unwanted attention or escalate tensions.
• Remain calm and avoid acting on emotion.
• If you feel unsafe, and if it is at all possible, leave the area immediately.

For Businesses

• Brief staff on emergency procedures and repeat these sessions to ensure that they are understood.
• Encourage staff to keep you informed regarding information received from the areas where they reside. Conversations at the taxi ranks, schools, shops, etc. are of the utmost importance, and valuable information is to be escalated to your Security service providers. Your provider will share the information with Law enforcement agencies, to plan and act accordingly.
• Take into consideration that staff might experience difficulty with the availability of public transport.
• Consider flexible working hours or remote work if major disruptions are expected.
• Secure premises and ensure CCTV and alarm systems are fully operational.
• Stay in contact with your Security provider and local community policing structures.

Important Reminders

• Respect the rights of others, even if you disagree with their views.
• Do not spread unverified information or rumours on social media.
• Report criminal activity or emergencies to your Security service provider, SAPS or your local emergency services immediately.
• Remember that lawful and peaceful protests are protected under the Constitution, but violence, intimidation, vandalism, and other criminal acts are not.

These precautions can help you stay safe while allowing lawful demonstrations to proceed peacefully.

Compiled by Paul Gerber, Monitor Net