Perceptions of Public Order Policing (POP) officials regarding the factors that escalate violence during protests in the Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg and Tshwane Municipal areas

Abstract

This study investigates the perceptions of Public Order Policing (POP) officials concerning the multifaceted factors that contribute to the escalation of violence during protests in the municipal areas of Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, and Tshwane. Utilising a qualitative research methodology, the research includes semi-structured interviews with a diverse sample of South African Police officials to uncover their insights and experiences in managing public demonstrations. Key findings indicate that the escalation of violence is often influenced by a combination of socio-economic disparities, political tensions, and the nature of protester-police interactions. Officials have reported that underlying grievances, such as unemployment, inequality, and inadequate service delivery, often act as catalysts for unrest. Additionally, the study reveals that the perception of police presence, the tactics employed by law enforcement, and the protesters’ prior experiences with authority play significant roles in shaping the dynamics of these events. This research underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of the root causes of protest violence and highlights the importance of strategic communication and community engagement in mitigating conflict. By shedding light on the perspectives of South African Police officials, this study contributes to the discourse on public order management and offers practical recommendations for improving policing strategies in protest situations. Ultimately, the aim is to foster a more peaceful and constructive dialogue between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Moreover, this research provides several recommendations to enhance understanding of how violence escalates during protests. It suggests expanding studies beyond Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, and Tshwane to other regions and contexts. This will allow for an examination of community perspectives to reveal potential differences between police officials and civilians. Investigating the effectiveness of police training, tactics, and communication – particularly regarding social media – can provide insights into protest dynamics. Analysing the legal and political frameworks governing public order policing is crucial, as is exploring the psychological impact on police officials who manage violent protests. Longitudinal studies could track the long-term effects of various policing strategies, while examining the demographics of protest participants may inform more customised approaches. Additionally, understanding the historical and cultural context of protests, especially in relation to the apartheid-era policing, can clarify current tensions. Finally, investigating the role of emerging technologies in public order policing could yield valuable insights into the dynamics of violence escalation during protests. Overall, these recommendations aim to enhance the understanding of factors influencing protest violence and improve public order management.