Police 'fully prepared' to quell disruptions at G20 Summit, says NATJOINTS

The national joint operational and intelligence structure have said police officers are fully prepared to deal with any potential disruptions to the upcoming G20 leaders’ summit.

Heads of states and other international dignitaries are expected to gather at the Nasrec expo centre in the south of Johannesburg this weekend for the highly anticipated event.

The area surrounding Nasrec is already under tight security and constant police surveillance, yet some groups have threatened to disrupt with the proceedings.

Among them is the South African municipal workers union, which has vowed to disrupt the summit if its ongoing salary disparity dispute with the City of Johannesburg remains unresolved.

Natjoints held a state-of-readiness briefing for law enforcement authorities at Nasrec on Tuesday night.

The national joint operational and intelligence structure is implementing a five-pillar security strategy for the G20 leaders' summit.

This strategy includes intelligence gathering on potential disruptions, a tactical response to any violent incidents strict police surveillance, and the detention of anyone attempting to break the law.

With protests expected on the day, the structure said the measures will help manage any unauthorized or disruptive visitors near the Nasrec precinct.

Natjoints’ co-chair Tebello Mosikile emphasized that the country’s defense systems should not be unnecessarily tested this weekend.

"Should the need arise, the sandf is also on standby to exercise their secondary role of supporting the saps. Are implementing our combat approach in response to any violation of the law through the deployment of our uniformed officers including our specialised units," said Mosikile.

She added current assessments indicate law enforcement has enough boots on the ground to address any security breaches.