KwaZulu-Natal police have placed themselves on high alert ahead of a planned national shutdown linked to the All Truck Drivers Forum SA (ATDFSA), which has called for action against the employment of undocumented foreign nationals in the transport sector.Authorities say there have been threats to block major national routes, particularly the N2 and N3 highways, on Saturday, 30 May.

Speaking in Durban, acting provincial commissioner Maj-Gen Phumelele Makoba expressed concern that despite previous cooperation with the ATDFSA, police were now confronted with public statements suggesting possible illegal activity, including road blockages.

She confirmed that no formal notice of protest had been submitted, but intelligence units and operational teams had already been deployed to monitor key routes and potential hotspots.

Makoba emphasised that while the Constitution protects the right to peaceful protest, any actions involving violence, intimidation, destruction of infrastructure, or obstruction of public roads would be met with decisive police intervention.

She urged organisers to engage with law enforcement through established communication channels to ensure that grievances are raised lawfully and without disruption to public order.

The police leadership also referenced past incidents in the province where protests linked to the trucking industry resulted in violence and damage to property, prompting heightened preparedness this time around.Joint operational structures and private sector partners have reportedly developed contingency plans to respond swiftly to any disruptions.

In addition, police highlighted ongoing operations targeting undocumented foreign nationals and employers who violate labour laws, noting that thousands of arrests and fines have been issued since January.

Authorities have also raised concern about civilians conducting illegal searches and demanding identification from others, stressing that such powers are reserved for law enforcement only.

Police have appealed for calm and urged communities to report suspicious activity as they prepare for both the upcoming weekend protest and another planned mobilisation expected later in June.