By Alicia Mmashakana
The assault of crime prevention wardens by community members in Reiger Park in Ekurhuleni has been condemned by Gauteng Premier Panayaza Lesufi, who has demanded that they be arrested.
A video has been circulating on social media showing the wardens, who are dressed in uniform, being attacked.
Lesufi’s comments follow a call by chairperson of Gauteng Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety for the premier and provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Tommy to act on the matter.
Lesufi said the wardens were deployed on a 24/7 shift basis in different wards and crime hotspots under the supervision of the police, and the Gauteng traffic and metro police departments.
“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. There can never be a no-go area for law enforcers while carrying out their responsibilities in our province,” Lesufi said.
He said the wardens risked their lives on daily basis to protect communities from criminal elements.
“The recruitment of the wardens has not only assisted Gauteng province in responding to crime, but it has also helped in reducing unemployment among young people.”
Committee chairperson Bandile Masuku also wants the perpetrators to be nabbed.
“This unjustifiable attack on law enforcement officials who serve to protect communities is not only a crime against individuals involved, but also a direct assault to the rule of law and undermines the safety and security of all citizens,” he said.
Lesufi urged community members to work with the department and not against them in the efforts of preventing crime in the province.
The wardens who are recognised as equal to provincial traffic officers, were introduced by Lesufi over a year ago.
He said in July that the number of wardens would be increased from 7000 to 15,000.
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