Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, condemned the attack on five traffic wardens who came under fire by gun-toting criminals during a routine patrol in Daveyton, Johannesburg, on the weekend.
Lesufi is expected to visit the injured wardens this morning, 8 September, at the Daveyton Main Clinic.
The three male and two female wardens were conducting a routine patrol and inspection at the Daveyton Railway Station. They were fired at when they attempted to search a group of 12 people.
A statement from Lesufi’s office indicates that high-powered weapons, including an AK-47, were used during the attack.
Gauteng Premier slams attack on wardens who were serving the community
“This act of violence demonstrates utter disregard for the rule of law. Our wardens, together with law enforcement officers, serve daily on the frontlines to ensure the safety and security of our communities.
“We will not be deterred from doing our work as law enforcement in the province. Any form of violence, intimidation, or interference with the work of our officers in the execution of their duties is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” said Lesufi.
He said the Gauteng Provincial Department was collaborating with law enforcement agencies to apprehend the suspects responsible for this crime.
Lesufi commended the wardens for their bravery and for working under dangerous circumstances. He wished them a speedy recovery.
Media reports in recent weeks indicate that police in various parts of South Africa have come under fire from criminals who refuse to surrender to police.
On 12 August, there were two brazen attacks on police in Pinetown and Inanda in Durban.
A shoot-out between police and two suspected criminals in Inanda occurred. Police were following up on leads that two suspects, linked to the murder of a police officer, attempted murder, a chain of house robberies, and armed robberies, when they (police) came under fire.
Earlier that same day, another brazen gun battle occurred between police and four suspected criminals during a foiled house robbery in Pinetown.
Police responded to a house robbery in Paradise Valley, Pinetown, only to be shot at by the robbers.
What are your thoughts on the wardens coming under fire by criminals?
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