Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Eastern Cape

GQEBERHA - A joint SAPS and SANDF parade in Gqeberha today marked the launch of Operation Prosper. Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, announced that 290 SANDF members have been deployed to support SAPS until March 2027.

Targeted areas include Gelvandale, Chetty, and Kamesh in Nelson Mandela Bay, as well as Humansdorp and Jeffreys Bay in the Sarah Baartman District. The operation focuses on drug networks, illegal firearms, extortion syndicates, and construction mafias.

“This mission is about restoring peace and dignity to communities,” said Lt Gen Ncata. SAPS remains the lead agency, with SANDF as a force multiplier, acting strictly within the law and with respect for human rights.

Communities are urged to cooperate with law enforcement and reject mob justice. Following an orientation of hotspots including Gelvandale, Helenvale, and Chetty, operations will run from 03 April 2026 to 31 March 2027.

Ends

Enquiries:
Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana
082 337 9402

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAPoliceService
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sapoliceservice_za/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SAPoliceService
Website: www.saps.gov.za