Lesufi condemns shocking attack on traffic wardens: 'Violence will not be tolerated in Gauteng!. File Picture: Independent Newspapers
Premier Panyaza Lesufi has labelled the attack of the ‘amaPanyaza’ Gauteng traffic wardens as senseless and unacceptable.
A disturbing video that has gone viral on X (formerly known as Twitter) which shows community members of the Reiger Park community attacking the Gauteng traffic wardens while they were on duty on Monday.
"This incident is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in Gauteng. We call on the law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators of this violence and anarchy to book,” Lesufi stated in a press release on Tuesday.
Lesufi emphasised that law enforcement must be allowed to perform their duties without encountering hostility from the communities they serve.
"There can never be a no-go area for law enforcers while carrying out their responsibilities in our province," he added.
Lesufi emphasised the crucial role that Gauteng traffic wardens play in enhancing community safety by decreasing crime.
“The Gauteng traffic wardens put their lives at risk each day to safeguard communities from criminal elements.
They are assigned to work on a 24/7 shift basis in various wards and crime hotspots under the supervision of SAPS, Gauteng Traffic, and Metro Police Departments, Lesufi explained.
Additionally, Lesufi noted that the recruitment of wardens has not only strengthened the province's efforts to combat crime but has also contributed to alleviating youth unemployment.
"These senseless attacks must be condemned and stopped. We call on all community members to work with us not against us in our efforts to fight crime in the province," he stated.
The Gauteng Department of Community Safety also voiced its concerns through its official X account, condemning the act of violence against the traffic wardens and calling on residents to cooperate with law enforcement in tackling crime across the province.
IOL