Unstoppable force? 3 000 crime-fighting heroes deployed in Gauteng

Gauteng is set to launch its new force of 3,000 Crime Prevention Wardens on 1 May, aiming to protect residents, particularly in Townships, Informal Settlements, and Hostels (TISH).

These wardens will be on patrol 24/7 across Gauteng and will collaborate with other law enforcement authorities.

Crime Prevention Wardens

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi expressed pride in reinforcing the efforts to eliminate crime in local communities.

He emphasised that the recruitment of Crime Prevention Wardens is part of the provincial government’s strategy to support the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Metropolitan Police Departments (MPDs) in their battle against crime, corruption, vandalism, and lawlessness.

Over 3,000 “young, fit, and agile” wardens have been recruited and extensively trained, now ready for deployment to various crime hotspots in the province.

Maintaining rule of law

Lesufi stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of all residents and maintaining the rule of law.

The wardens will be provided with the necessary support and are expected to execute their duties within legal boundaries.

The Gauteng government initially aimed to recruit 6 000 Crime Prevention Wardens, but only about 4 000 previously unemployed youths qualified for the program.

READ: Lesufi’s crime-fighting plan for Gauteng ‘might just work’

Alleged sabotage

Lesufi mentioned attempts to sabotage the program, which aims to assist law enforcement authorities in fighting crime.

During a media briefing on Friday in Midrand, Lesufi disclosed that several trainees were removed from the program for providing false credentials.

Others were disqualified for not meeting the required criteria, such as possessing a criminal record, lacking a matric certificate, or not being South African citizens.

Some trainees even showed up at the training camp without being called.

Desperate for work

Furthermore, Lesufi said that desperation for employment led some to join the program despite being physically unfit or unable to qualify through the rigorous training processes.

These issues highlight the challenges faced during the recruitment and training of Crime Prevention Wardens.

As the 3 000 wardens prepare to hit the ground running, the Gauteng provincial government is taking a significant step in the war on crime, ensuring a safer environment for its residents.