Cele urges SAPS to ‘make world safe’ during BRICS Summit
Police Minister Bheki Cele says the South African Police Service’s safeguarding of the BRICS Summit won’t come at the expense of the safety and security of ordinary South Africans.
Cele addressed law enforcement officers who will be deployed to safeguard this week’s summit in Johannesburg.
The heads of Brazil, China, India and South Africa, plus Russia's top diplomat, will gather from Tuesday to Thursday under the theme "BRICS and Africa".
South Africa is hosting the summit for the first time since 2018, and the sheer number of dignitaries has led to heightened security in and around the Sandton Convention Centre.
Addressing a security personnel parade on Monday, which included police officers from various departments and private security, Cele said they are ready to ensure the safety of all delegates.
“Make the world that is descending here to say, indeed, South Africa is the place to be. This place, from now on until the last day of BRICS, is the home of the world. Make the world feel welcome. Make the world comfortable. Make the world safe," said Cele.
At the same time, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola said officers must ensure the safety of all for the duration of the summit.
"We have brought you all together here so that inhabitants are safe. Everybody must feel at home. We must maintain public order. There will be some human beings that will be protesting, and it is upon you to ensure that they protest within the law, and ensure those that are not protesting are protected.”
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