Private security dominates Randburg crime operation
A large-scale crime operation in Randburg faced criticism from Ward 104’s councillor, who felt local hotspots were neglected despite visible law enforcement presence.
The day began early at 05:30 with a parade at Randburg Court on August 8, where officers from SAPS, Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), crime wardens, and private security companies from across Johannesburg gathered.
The group was divided into three teams: one focused on roadblocks, another on stop-and-search operations, and a third tasked with addressing unique issues at various hotspots.
After the parade, a briefing took place at Honeydew SAPS, attended by provincial and regional SAPS officials, as well as other stakeholders. During this meeting, a report was presented highlighting the challenges, crime statistics, and potential solutions within the Randburg police precinct. With the briefing concluded drones were deployed to monitor the green belts for signs of land invasion.
However, it soon became clear that, rather than following the advice of local councillors on known hotspots, the operation seemed to be guided by input from private security firms. This was evident as the team moved from one site to another, following directions from a particular security company, which later claimed victory for the operation despite it being a provincial initiative that had been ongoing for nearly two years.
As the day progressed, the group visited several sites before taking General Max Marsha, Johannesburg District Commissioner, on a tour of the actual hotspots in the Randburg precinct, including the busy Randburg CBD taxi rank. Upon arrival, it became apparent that the locals had been tipped off about the operation, as around 60% of the usually bustling stores were closed, with roller shutters down. The tour continued to other hotspots and several locations on the councillor’s radar, before concluding at Randburg SAPS around 13:00
Unfortunately, after the operation, news emerged of residents allegedly being assaulted by provincial crime wardens. Ward 104 councillor Emi Koekemoer expressed concern and extended an invitation to those involved to explain what happened, as the video evidence received provided little context.
Koekemoer expressed some disappointment, stating, “I am a bit deflated as most of the issues I would have personally liked to have been addressed in my ward, like a land invasion on spots such as Malibongwe Drive, Hans Schoeman Street, Vale Avenue, and CR Swart Drive, were not addressed.”
Overall, while the effort to combat crime is appreciated, it’s clear that more coordination is needed to achieve meaningful results for the community.
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