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South Africa Deploys Troops to Tackle Gangsterism Crisis

3/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to combat crime in Gauteng, the Western Cape, and the Eastern Cape.
The SANDF will act as a 'force multiplier' for police against gangsterism and illicit mining, with soldiers operating under police command.
The operation costs over R80 million and began with 550 SANDF members conducting raids.

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Story summary

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to combat crime in Gauteng, the Western Cape, and the Eastern Cape.
The SANDF will act as a 'force multiplier' for police against gangsterism and illicit mining, with soldiers operating under police command.
The operation costs over R80 million and began with 550 SANDF members conducting raids.