![vmexsa logo [front]](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%206490%201012'%3E%3C/svg%3E)
The Gauteng Department of Community Safety has condemned an attack on Traffic Wardens popularly known as AmaPanyaza by members of the public in Reiger Park, City of Ekurhuleni.
In a video circulating on social media an unidentified male is seen hitting the warden on the ground before his colleague cuts in and pushes him away, however, he continues to assault another person.
According to reports, the Traffic Wardens were picking up one of their own when they came across a male who was reporting an assault case. The officers stopped in order to listen to the complainant.
Whilst listening to the complainant, two coloured males approached and tried to assault the complainant again in front of the Wardens.
The wardens tried to intervene, but were also assaulted. The officers had to retreat from the scene because they were outnumbered and more people were getting involved.
One officer sustained injuries, and was taken to hospital for treatment. Suspects were detained at Reiger Park police station.
ALSO READ | Over 400kg of illegally connected cables removed at an informal settlement in Ennerdale
“The Department condemns this act of violence against the Traffic Wardens and any form of obstruction to their duties and would like to reiterate its commitment to ensure the safety of all Gauteng residents.
“We urge the public to cooperate with Gauteng Traffic Wardens and other law enforcement officers in rooting out criminal elements within their communities,” the statement read.
AmaPanyaza have been under fire on how they are abusing their powers, and instilling fear and chaos among the residents of Gauteng.
In August, Crezane Bosch – DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Community Safety said the lack of training of these wardens and reported that rather than enforcing the law, many of them were causing panic and wreaking havoc in our communities.
