| Security arrangements for Julius Malema sentencing: 15–16 April 2026 | |
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| Date Published: | 2026/04/15 |
| Description Details: | |
Media Statement KUGOMPO - The South African Police Service (SAPS) is fully prepared to maintain public order during the upcoming sentencing proceedings of Mr Julius Malema at the East London Magistrate’s Court in KuGompo City on 15 and 16 April 2026. Adequate personnel have been deployed to ensure the safety of all court officials, the accused (Mr Malema), legal teams, media, and the public. The deployment is proportionate to the risk assessment. While we cannot disclose specific operational plans or exact deployment numbers as doing so could compromise security, the public can expect the following: - A visibly increased police presence inside and outside the court precinct, including Public Order Police and visible policing units. - Our priorities are to ensure the safety of all persons and property, to prevent disruption of the community’s daily business, and to guarantee that court proceedings continue safely, peacefully, and without incident. Road closures will be implemented on key routes near the court: - Affected roads: Oxford Street, Fleet Street, adjacent CBD roads, and access routes into central KuGompo City. - Alternative routes: Use the N2 bypass or R72 outer sections to avoid the city centre. Motorists may also reroute via the R346 or longer inland corridors. - Advice: Avoid the central East London Magistrate’s Court area entirely on 15–16 April until proceedings conclude. Follow law enforcement directives on the ground. We urge members of the public to listen to official instructions from law enforcement and not to be distracted by unverified social media posts. SAPS will not tolerate any lawlessness. Anyone found infringing upon the rights of others or engaging in criminal activities will face the full might of the law. Ends
Enquiries:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService | |
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