South Africa has begun deploying soldiers across several provinces to support overstretched police in tackling violent crime, including illegal mining and gang activity. President Cyril...

South Africa has begun deploying soldiers across several provinces to support overstretched police in tackling violent crime, including illegal mining and gang activity. President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier announced that around 2,200 troops would be sent to five of the country’s nine provinces most affected by crime. The year-long deployment is aimed at restoring order in high-risk areas. An initial group of soldiers was sent to parts of Gauteng, including Johannesburg, in March. A larger deployment began on 1 April, covering Eastern Cape, Free State, North West and Western Cape. The move comes as South Africa continues to grapple with extremely high levels of violent crime. Official statistics show that between October and December 2025, an average of around...