World Cup security plan on track

Speaking at the launch of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Readiness programme as well as the SAPS Good Ambassador campaign in Cape Town, Cele said the country's 2010 Security plan had been well received by security experts from the 32 participating countries and by 188 Interpol member countries.

"To this end, the South African Police Service will deploy about 46 000 members in all nine host cities and other strategic areas. This includes all ports of entry, airports, sea ports and all 54 land ports. Team security has been given a priority on route, in base camps, venue specific hotels and stadia," said Cele.

He added that the police were committed to delivering a safe and secure World Cup.

"We have recommitted ourselves to serve our country with diligence and vigor, this we owe to South Africa, the African continent and the world. We will continue to squeeze the space for criminals to zero hence we are ready to deliver a safe and secure world cup not today, not tomorrow but yesterday," added Cele.

Police Minister, Nathi Mthethwa, also appealed to communities, who may want to express their grievances by marching, to do so within the framework of the law.

"Police will not tolerate criminal acts that are disguised as service delivery protests or labour-related demands.

"We will unapologetically deal with such criminal acts decisively and we require no permission from anyone. We want to reiterate that police will take no kindness to such cowardly acts," he said.

He added that the SAPS security plan would also address any form of terrorist acts.

"We will not allow this to happen in our home soil. We are prepared for any eventuality. Any type of deviant behaviour be it criminality or terrorism will be dealt with swiftly and with no mercy," he said