Gauteng police complete election risk assessments ahead of polls
Gauteng Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni says police have completed risk assessments.
On Wednesday, South Africa will hold local government elections, and Gauteng Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni has announced that the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the State Security Agency have completed risk assessments for the polls. During a briefing in Parktown, Johannesburg, Mthombeni highlighted areas rated as high and medium risk for voting stations, with Johannesburg District having the most high-risk stations (75) and Ekurhuleni following with 23.
Mthombeni, alongside Deputy Provincial Commissioners Major General Fred Kekana and Major General Mbuso Khumalo, as well as Johannesburg District Commissioner Major General Nonhlanhla Kubheka, visited several voting stations in the district ahead of the Elections. The police have noted 24 cases of election-related violence and intimidation since June, including murder, assault, and the defacement of political posters, with 13 arrests so far, though two remain in custody.
To ensure safety during the elections, Mthombeni outlined the police force's phased approach, with the first two phases already completed during voter registration weekends. Phase three is underway, and phase four, focusing on post-election security during vote counting and result centers, will begin on November 5, 2026. The police force will prioritize safety and security throughout the country, as the Special Vote special elections continue.
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