Johannesburg - The SA government moved to reassure World Cup visitors on Thursday that their safety and security remain top priority.
"Of the country's 190 000 police officers, only 40 000 have been allocated to World Cup operations. These officers will be supported by their counterparts from the 32 participating teams," government spokesperson Themba Maseko said.
"Therefore 150 000 police officers will be available to continue with normal policing. Policing of the country and ensuring the safety and security of all within it remains a 24-hour operation."
The statement comes after three foreign journalists, in the country to cover the soccer World Cup, were robbed at gunpoint at their lodge near Magaliesburg, north-west of Johannesburg, while another three journalists lost a camera in a smash-and-grab in Soweto.
"Those in distress are requested to report to relevant authorities and the appropriate assistance will be rendered. We appeal to citizens and visitors to also exercise care of their personal safety and those around them," he added.
"Of the country's 190 000 police officers, only 40 000 have been allocated to World Cup operations. These officers will be supported by their counterparts from the 32 participating teams," government spokesperson Themba Maseko said.
"Therefore 150 000 police officers will be available to continue with normal policing. Policing of the country and ensuring the safety and security of all within it remains a 24-hour operation."
The statement comes after three foreign journalists, in the country to cover the soccer World Cup, were robbed at gunpoint at their lodge near Magaliesburg, north-west of Johannesburg, while another three journalists lost a camera in a smash-and-grab in Soweto.
"Those in distress are requested to report to relevant authorities and the appropriate assistance will be rendered. We appeal to citizens and visitors to also exercise care of their personal safety and those around them," he added.