Protest response ready

The Malmesbury police, including surrounding towns in the Swartland, have been placed on high alert in preparation for the March and March campaign and the planned national shutdown today.

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Authorities were closely monitoring the local area and surrounding communities across the region and remain prepared to respond to any incidents that may arise.

"Police, together with local traffic officials and law-enforcement agencies, have been placed in a state of readiness to ensure a swift response should any disruptions occur," police spokesperson Sgt Henry du Randt assured.

He said officials were confident the situation will remain peaceful but have also called on other role-players, such as the Public Order Police to assist if circumstances were to escalate.

Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety Anroux Marais has urged residents to refrain from violence, intimidation and lawlessness ahead of planned anti-immigration protests expected to take place across the province on 30 June.