What You Need to Know:
Gauteng Crime Wardens, known locally as ‘Amapanyaza’ after Gauteng Premier, Andrek Panyaza Lesufi, are to undergo training by the South African Defense Forces.
The implementation of the Wardens as a crime prevention mechanism in Gauteng created a storm of controversy late last year as reports began to surface that the Wardens, who at the time held no police power, were illegally stopping and searching individuals, as well as signing legal documents at police stations.
In December last year, after a brief period of confusion as to their mandates, the Wardens were given the legal powers of Peace Officers, meaning they are able to make arrests and carry firearms.
Ready to be handed over to the South African National Defence Force for proper training. Go and make us proud young men and women. We will fight crime in Gauteng and we mean it. #GrowingGautengTogether pic.twitter.com/JCiYOZWwzL
— Panyaza Lesufi (@Lesufi) February 4, 2024
However, questions have arisen regarding the sources of funding for the wardens, as earlier this week a whistleblower announced the collapse of the nation’s police radio and emergency number system, resulting in those in distress unable to contact emergency centers and many officers resorting to WhatsApp to contact their colleagues during call outs.
Further questions arise around why another body has been created to fight crime, and why that body requires defense force training.