Foreign Nationals Spotted Wearing Camouflage In Pretoria Has Left Many Asking Question

Residents in parts of Pretoria have raised alarm after groups of foreign nationals were reportedly seen wearing military-style camouflage clothing, fueling speculation and debate over whether the individuals are preparing for violent activity.

The sightings, which circulated widely on social media this weekend, show men dressed in full combat fatigues moving in groups across certain areas of the capital city. While there is no evidence linking the individuals to criminal activity or organized violence, the images have triggered unease in a country already grappling with tensions around undocumented migration, crime, and community safety.

Community leaders and civic organizations expressed concern, saying the display of paramilitary-style attire by civilians, particularly in an urban environment, is provocative and could heighten fears of instability. Some residents have questioned why foreign nationals would openly wear such clothing, suggesting it could signal gang affiliations or militant preparations.

Pretoria Community Policing Forum chairperson Sipho Mokoena called on authorities to investigate the matter urgently. “People are asking serious questions. Why are these individuals dressed like soldiers in the streets? It creates panic and suspicion, especially in areas where violent crime is already a problem,” Mokoena said.Police spokesperson Colonel Brenda Muridili confirmed that law enforcement is aware of the images and has launched preliminary inquiries. “At this stage, we cannot confirm any criminal intent. Wearing camouflage is not illegal, but we are investigating to establish the purpose behind this conduct,” she said.

Experts warn against jumping to conclusions without factual evidence. Security analyst Johan Burger noted that while the behavior is unusual, there could be benign explanations. “Camouflage gear is widely available and often used for fashion or casual wear. However, in a context where tensions around foreign nationals are high, such imagery can be misinterpreted and escalate community fears,” Burger explained.

The controversy comes amid ongoing public discourse about undocumented immigrants and rising crime in South Africa. Movements such as Operation Dudula have frequently accused some foreign nationals of involvement in criminal activities, an allegation that has fueled sporadic clashes and xenophobic violence in recent years.Authorities have appealed for calm, urging the public not to resort to vigilantism. “We caution communities against taking the law into their own hands. If there are concerns, report them through official channels,” Muridili added.

For now, the motives behind the camouflage display remain unclear, but the incident underscores the fragile state of community trust and the need for proactive engagement between authorities and residents to prevent misinformation-driven conflict.