Police Minister Launches National Coordination Centre Ahead of Elections

Minister Cele highlighted the meticulous preparation and renovation undertaken to ensure the NCC's functionality, including the installation of cutting-edge equipment and technology.

Police Minister, General Bheki Cele, inaugurated the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) Coordination Centre, located at the South African Police Service's largest training college near Pretoria. This move, coming days before the National and Provincial General Elections, signifies a concerted effort towards enhanced security measures during this critical period.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Cele emphasized the significance of the NATJOINTS Coordination Centre (NCC), which stems from lessons learned during the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The establishment of the NCC underscores the necessity for a unified approach to national security challenges.

Minister Cele highlighted the meticulous preparation and renovation undertaken to ensure the NCC's functionality, including the installation of cutting-edge equipment and technology. The centre serves as a central hub for coordinating information and facilitating swift responses to security-related incidents.

Meetings of the NATJOINTS, the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Directors General, as well as Priority Committees and work streams, will be held at the NCC. The facility also houses the National Joint Operational Centre (NATJOC) and provides space for Mission Area Joint Operational Centres (MAJOC).

With representatives from various government departments, agencies, state-owned enterprises, and private sector stakeholders, the NCC is poised to become the nerve centre for planning major national events, including elections and presidential inaugurations.

Minister Cele affirmed that the NCC's operations will continue post-elections, operating 24/7, 365 days a year, to ensure seamless coordination of NATJOINTS activities. The minister reiterated the commitment of NATJOINTS to serving and protecting law-abiding citizens and residents of South Africa.

The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Police Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola, Home Affairs Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, Defence Minister Thandi Modise, Social Development Minister Lindiwe Zulu, and senior government officials.