'No terror threat' for SA
2005-05-17 11:35
Cape Town - While international terrorism appears to pose no immediate threat to South Africa, vigilance remains the watchword, Intelligence Minister Ronnie Kasrils said on Tuesday.
Introducing debate on his budget vote in the national assembly, he said: "Although there has been much media speculation over the possible effects of international terrorism on our country, we can say that we do not discern any imminent threat.
"Since no country can claim immunity from this scourge, we remain vigilant," Kasrils said.
These measures were broad and comprehensive. They placed the maintenance of human rights and the rule of law at the centre, as these were the basis of democracy and the very values often targeted by terrorists.
"And in using these measures, no section of our community will be victimised simply by virtue of their culture or creed.
"Our vigilance has yielded results. We have seen the capture of mercenaries plotting the overthrow of the government of Equatorial Guinea and the arrest and deportation of wanted international terrorists seeking refuge in our country," he said.
Other significant breakthroughs included the disruption of urban terror activities and the exposure of a network involved in nuclear proliferation.
"We will use our powers where necessary, but these will not be abused as was the case under apartheid. Today's intelligence operatives are inculcated in the spirit of our democratic ethos."
However, while the most remarkable political stability in South Africa's history had been achieved, "some local trends" needed attention.
Legitimate protest part of democracy
"I refer particularly to the increase of violence in KwaZulu-Natal, the taxi violence, and recent instability at municipal level at a number of localities around the country.
"Legitimate protest is a healthy facet of any true democracy, but those instigating violence must know that the law will deal with transgressors."
Kasrils also disclosed that high level intelligence officers had been transferred to strengthen security capacity at South Africa's ports of entry.
Turning to co-operation between the domestic agencies, Kasrils said much progress had been made in this regard.
It was being facilitated through the relevant ministers and officials with links to crime and defence intelligence, justice and home affairs, the Scorpions, the Financial Intelligence Centre, and the SA Revenue Service.
"However, while much has been achieved, much more remains to be done. We must continue to focus efforts in a shared and co-ordinated manner.
"We must ensure that we eliminate unnecessary rivalry and turf battles," he said.
- SAPA