Reports of a nationwide shutdown did the rounds over the weekend.

Messages on social media and instant messaging apps have started circulating over the weekend, warning citizens that a possible new wave of violent protests in the country might be on the cards from today. The messages are calling for people to take to the streets to perpetrate a national shutdown. 

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure on Sunday confirmed that it is well aware of the threats and rumours that are being spread. As a result, they have put authorities on high alert to nip any illegal protests in the bud.

“The NatJOINTS is aware of inflammatory messages on various social media platforms advocating for violence. Those behind these messages are warned that inciting violence is a criminal offence. Members of the public are cautioned against spreading such divisive messages,” NatJOINTS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Robert Netshiund said while addressing the media.

Equally, messages are doing the rounds to encourage South Africans to come out in their numbers to protect their property against the illegal protesters. Security authorities are, however, urging the public to stay calm and not take the law into their own hands.

“The public is urged not to respond to calls for violence and criminality, and are thus discouraged from participating in activities that seek to defy the rule of law and undermine the authority of the state.”

NatJOINTS reassured the public that the police and other national agencies

have the means to ensure that calm is maintained in the country and that they will do everything in their power to put a swift end to any form of lawlessness.

Under current lockdown regulations, outdoor gatherings, including protests, are limited to 100 people. The country is still recovering from devastating lootings which took place in Kwa-Zulu Natal and parts of Gauteng a few weeks ago.