Public outcry over US Marines training Cape Town Metro Police cadets
The US Marines on Muizenberg Beach in Cape Town.
Image: screenshot /Facebook
Activist group PAGAD has raised objections to the presence of US Marines training Cape Town Metro Police cadets, as questions continue over the nature and authorisation of the exercise.
The development follows earlier reports that the national Ministry of Police was not aware of the drills conducted on Muizenberg Beach, prompting questions about the legal basis and authorisation of the engagement.
Footage of the session, which circulated widely on social media, showed uniformed Marines putting cadets through beach drills, sparking public debate about the nature and oversight of the activity.
“We categorically oppose any United States military presence in Cape Town. There is no such thing as a benign foreign military footprint on African soil,” PAGAD said.
The group added that it viewed the presence of foreign military personnel, even in a limited capacity, as raising broader concerns about sovereignty and the appropriateness of such partnerships in a local policing environment.
“We will never welcome the boots of a foreign power in our communities, regardless of how such involvement is framed,” the organisation said.
Separately, councillor Rochelle Minnaar called for clarity on the circumstances surrounding the exercise.
“Residents have a right to know who authorised this, under what legal framework it took place, and whether any public funds were used,” she said.
“Accountability cannot come only after public exposure. It must be built on proactive transparency and clear communication.”
The City maintains the session involved Marines associated with the US Consulate and was limited to a fitness routine, with no formal training component or cost to the City.
Mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said the activity formed part of broader efforts to promote fitness within enforcement services, describing it as “not a formal training engagement”.
Calls for further clarity from national and provincial authorities remain ongoing.