Concerns raised on safety and operational capacity of Crime Prevention Wardens amid attack

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Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has raised concerns on safety and operational capacity of Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens following a violent incident.

The portfolio committee on community safety in the Gauteng provincial legislature has expressed deep concern regarding the safety and operational capacity of crime prevention wardens.

This follow a violent incident on Sunday – where five wardens were injured after allegedly coming under fire from a group of armed assailants during a routine patrol and stop-and-search operation.

According to preliminary reports, the attackers were reportedly in possession of high-caliber firearms, including an AK-47.

Today, Premier Panyaza Lesufi is visiting the Gauteng Traffic Wardens at Alberton Netcare Hospital following the shooting incident at the Daveyton Railway Station, which occurred while they were on duty.#GrowingasaferGauteng pic.twitter.com/shUR6QprNv

— GP Department of Community Safety (@GP_CommSafety) September 8, 2025

The committee said it is relieved that, despite the severity of the attack, no fatalities were reported.

“This incident has raised urgent questions about the level of training, equipment, and support provided to crime prevention wardens, especially when facing heavily armed criminal elements,” expressed Bandile Masuku, chairperson of the portfolio committee.

Masuku revealed that they have called for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack, including whether the Wardens were accompanied by armed South African Police Service (SAPS) officers and whether all operational protocols were followed.

He added; “The committee recently received a progress report during its meeting on 28 August, detailing findings from an academic study conducted by researchers from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), led by Professor Rakubu.

Assessment of crime prevention wardens impact

“The study assessed the impact of the crime prevention wardens since their deployment and identified key interventions needed to enhance their effectiveness.

“The committee welcomed the insights and emphasized the importance of integrating and coordinating law enforcement agencies to strengthen crime-fighting efforts.”

Masuku stated that, however, the committee also cautioned against exposing wardens to high-risk situations without adequate protection, training, and support.

“As Gauteng continues to grapple with violent crime, it is imperative that all law enforcement personnel are properly equipped and safeguarded.

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“The committee extends its well wishes to the injured wardens and wishes them a full and speedy recovery. We further calls on law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible for this heinous act are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice,” he remarked.

The chairperson concluded by saying that the committee remains committed to ensuring that crime prevention efforts in Gauteng are led by capable, well-trained, and well-supported personnel who can respond effectively to the province’s complex safety challenges.