South Africa deploys troops in cities to tackle crime

"Scenes like this have become common in South Africa. Estimates suggest that around 64 people are killed across the country daily. Figures from the online database Numbeo show how widespread the issue is. Pietermaritzburg, Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban and Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, rank as the five most dangerous cities in the country."

"It has often been linked to the fact that we are among the most unequal societies in the world in terms of wealth distribution, alongside high levels of poverty, and corrupt policing. In February, speaking about 30 kilometers from the Cape Flats, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa vowed to take tougher action against organized crime, including deploying the military."

"The area has long struggled with poverty, gang violence and high rates of organized crime. Mitchells Plain lies on the Cape Flats, a stretch of densely populated townships on the outskirts of Cape Town. Even Cape Town, one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, appears sixth on the list of most dangerous cities."

South Africa faces a severe crime crisis with an estimated 64 people killed daily. Major cities including Pietermaritzburg, Pretoria, Johannesburg, Durban, and Gqeberha rank among the world's most dangerous, with Cape Town also appearing in the top six. Mitchells Plain, located on the Cape Flats near Cape Town, exemplifies this violence through frequent gang-related shootings and organized crime. The region's challenges stem from extreme wealth inequality, widespread poverty, and corrupt policing. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced military intervention to address organized crime and illegal mining. The government deployed 550 soldiers to Gauteng province, with military presence visible in Johannesburg streets. This military response remains controversial among observers.

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