Deployment has begun after dozens of murders were reported in crime-hit communities of the South African city

South African National Defense Force (SANDF) troops entered gang-affected areas of Cape Town on Wednesday, local outlets reported. 

The deployment is focused on neighborhoods long affected by gang violence. Daily Maverick reported that residents in these areas have faced ongoing insecurity linked to organized crime and shootings. The operation follows a surge in killings in recent weeks. Local authorities increased security measures after 23 murders were recorded in 11 days in the Cape Flats area.

About 800 soldiers are expected to take part in the operation in Cape Town, according to local media reports. The mission in the Western Cape forms part of a wider national deployment.

The move is a part of the broader Operation Prosper, which involves about 2,200 troops deployed across five provinces. The Presidency said the troops were sent "to support the South African Police Service (SAPS)" and to combat crime and illegal mining.

The deployment covers the Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, North West, and Western Cape. Gauteng includes Johannesburg, the country's financial hub, where authorities are also targeting criminal networks linked to illegal mining.

The office of President Cyril Ramaphosa said the leader had informed parliament of the decision to deploy troops under constitutional provisions. The operation is set to run from March 2026 until March 2027, according to the statement.

The Cape Flats area has long struggled with gang activity and high levels of violent crime. According to reports, residents have been forced to remain indoors due to safety concerns. Citizens reacted to the arrival of troops with cautious relief. According to Daily Maverick, some said the presence of soldiers allowed them to move more freely after staying inside because of violence.

In February, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced increased spending on peace and security as part of efforts to combat crime. Government spending in this area is set to rise from 268.2 billion rand ($14 billion) in 2025-26 to 291.2 billion rand ($16 billion) in 2028-29.

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In March, the government also re-enlisted experienced retired detectives to strengthen investigative capacity.