Ramaphosa takes action to save Eskom: 880 soldiers deployed to guard power stations!

President Cyril Ramaphosa has deployed 880 South African National Defence Force members to secure several Eskom power stations nationwide. The deployment period started on April 17, 2023, and will continue until October 17, 2023. The Presidency announced on Saturday that Operation Prosper authorised the deployment in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The Presidency explained that deploying SANDF personnel will work with SAPS to prevent and combat crime and maintain law and order in South Africa. In addition, the SANDF personnel will assist the SAPS in protecting Eskom power stations from sabotage, theft, and other criminal activities that may impact the functioning of power stations and the electricity supply.

Earlier, from March 17, 2023, to April 17, 2023, SANDF deployed 2,700 members to assist the SAPS in safeguarding Eskom power stations under Operation Prosper. The current deployment was authorised in Section 201(2) (a) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa of 1996.

The Office of the Presidency estimates the deployment will cost R146,718,427.

Source: Ramaphosa sends in army to protect power stations

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Picture: Twitter / PresidencyZA