South Africa Tightens Security Ahead Of G20 Summit This Weekend

Illustration of South African security forces conducting security exercises at Swartkops Air Force Base. (Wikimedia Commons/Shine 2010)

JAKARTA - South Africa since Thursday has increased security in the country ahead of the G20 summit in Johannesburg on November 22-23 which will be attended by leaders of block member countries, according to a senior police official.

The law enforcement agency held a parade on Wednesday to show their readiness ahead of this weekend's summit.

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola told law enforcement officers on Wednesday security measures had been taken to protect delegates and heads of state.

"We are sure that as for other events that we have monitored, this event will also take place in a safe and secure environment," said Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, deputy national commissioner for the police.

Meanwhile, a number of groups, including climate activists, pro-Kashmir activists and women's rights groups, are expected to hold protests.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation, whom they accuse of crimes against humanity in the Jammu region and the occupied reason.

Lt. Gen. Mosikili said the police would allow the rights of the protesters as long as they adhere to the right directions and legal boundaries.

"We confirm that from Friday, November 21, to Monday, November 24, we will implement strict regional quarantine around the FNB stadium, which is the location of the accreditation center, as well as at the Nasrec Conference and Expo Center, which hosts high-ranking officials," explained Lt. Gen. Mosikili.

He added that there would be increased road blocking, vehicle checkpoints, foot patrols, and air control to ensure the safety of heads of state and delegates.

Separately, Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia will pass 3,558 new police officers trained on Friday, which will strengthen efforts to eradicate crime at the grassroots police level.

South Africa was the first African country to lead the group of the world's major economies.

Pelangi Country served as the group's rotating annual president last December. G20 member countries account for more than 70 percent of world trade.

South Africa previously successfully held 20 G20 ministerial meetings and Sherpa conferences ahead of the G20 Summit.