Holomisa defends deployment of SANDF

Deputy Defence Minister Bantu Holomisa has defended the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers in parts of southern Johannesburg.

On Wednesday, dozens of soldiers, supported by police officers, conducted surprise raids in Eldorado Park, Riverlea, Westbury and Sophiatown, arresting several people and seizing contraband.

Dubbed Operation Prosper, it forms part of President Cyril Ramaphosa's commitment during this year’s State of the Nation Address to step up the fight against crime in hotspot areas.

The SANDF deployment has drawn criticism from Parliament’s police portfolio committee chairperson Ian Cameron, who said the committee was not informed about this operation and has questioned its legality.

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But Holomisa said the operation was properly coordinated, with senior SAPS and SANDF commanders holding discussions before the troops were sent into communities.

He said the deployment also follows the provisions of the constitution, which allows the president to deploy the defence force in support of police to maintain law and order, provided Parliament is informed.

When asked whether soldiers were given specific training to conduct the raid, Holomisa said the responsibility lies with operational commanders.

"That instruction was issued and it is left entirely to the commanders, so the best person to answer you is the commissioner of police or the general of the SANDF."

Holomisa added that the president did write to the Speaker of Parliament about the deployment.

The presidency has yet to issue a statement responding to the concerns raised.