Cape Town – The South African Police Service has confirmed that preparations for the State of the Nation Address (SONA) are in full swing.
President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to deliver the speech at Cape Town City Hall at 7 pm on Thursday.
The annual event typically reviews the successes and failures of the past year and outlines plans and challenges for the coming year.
Police officials, including Minister of Police Bheki Cele and National Police Commissioner Fanie Masemola, are expected to conduct a security assessment around City Hall on the day of the address.
READ|| The Military Police Division motorbike riders were at it again rehearsing for the upcoming SONA in Cape Town. https://t.co/yerM6cu8pv#SANDF#MilitaryPoliceDivision pic.twitter.com/ufSfFDNbD4
— SA National Defence Force (@SANDF_ZA) February 5, 2024
The police have assured the country that the event will take place in a safe and secure environment, with police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe saying that all security systems are ready for any eventuality.
Law enforcement officers will be deployed to address potential risks or threats during the event.
“The Natjoints structure which is led by the SAPS, SSA and SANDF have been meeting regularly in the build up to the SONA to ensure the plans that are in place will ensure the safety and security of participants, spectators, communities living near the Cape Town City Hall and businesses operating in this vicinity.
“The operational plan is in place and all critical role players are ready to execute their various responsibilities as per their mandate.
“All law enforcement agencies led by the SAPS have mobilised resources to heighten police visibility with the aim of preventing and combatting any form of opportunistic crimes before, during and post the planned address,” said Mathe.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
