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Can the army curb South Africa's organized crime wave?

March 5, 2026

As organized crime surges, South Africa is turning to the army for support. But can soldiers succeed where policing has struggled, or is the country risking escalation?

https://p.dw.com/p/59rUB

South Africa has been grappling with severe organized crime for years, placing it among the world's worst‑affected countries in terms of violent crime.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced plans to deploy the army to help tackle the crisis.

But will militarization work? And what strategies can ensure lasting security?

DW's Eddy Micah Jr. speaks to Andy Mashaile, a security strategist and retired Interpol ambassador, and DW correspondent Thuso Khumalo.

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