The system of apartheid and the severe restrictions on the freedom of assembly mean that the police have the legal authority to disrupt and disperse most gatherings and demonstrations by force. During the protests of 1976-77, 1980, and 1982, the police used many weapons and killed large numbers of people. The strict security laws prevent access to accurate information regarding detentions, but large numbers of citizens have been detained. In addition, despite the constitutional prohibition of cruel punishment and treatment, significant numbers of black male and female prisoners have been tortured or received other cruel measures. Moreover, many deaths in custody have been officially described as suicide. Redress has been obtained only in certain showcase situations. The South African situation exemplifies the action-reaction-action cycle involving agents of social control and individuals. 16 references.