Lesufi Condemns Daveyton Shooting as Five Gauteng Traffic Wardens Injured

According to preliminary reports, the wardens—who were patrolling the area as part of routine law enforcement duties—encountered a group of about 12 suspects.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has strongly condemned the shooting of five Gauteng traffic wardens during a routine patrol in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni, over the weekend. The brazen attack, which took place in the early hours of Sunday morning, has once again highlighted the dangers faced daily by law enforcement officials in the province.

The Incident

According to preliminary reports, the wardens—who were patrolling the area as part of routine law enforcement duties—encountered a group of about 12 suspects. When the wardens attempted to conduct a search, they came under heavy gunfire from high-calibre weapons. The sudden exchange left five officers injured, sparking widespread outrage from provincial authorities.

Police have since opened a case of attempted murder, and investigations are underway to track down the armed suspects. Law enforcement agencies are said to be intensifying their search operations in and around Daveyton to prevent further violence.

Premier’s Strong Response

Premier Lesufi described the attack as “an act of violence that demonstrates utter disregard for the rule of law.” He stressed that law enforcement officers across Gauteng risk their lives daily to ensure public safety and cannot be intimidated by criminals seeking to destabilize 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,” Lesufi said.

The Premier further pledged that the provincial government, together with the South African Police Service (SAPS), would leave no stone unturned in apprehending those responsible.

Support for Injured Wardens

Lesufi praised the traffic wardens for their bravery in facing such danger and extended his best wishes for their recovery. “I commend the wardens for their bravery and commitment under such dangerous circumstances and wish them a speedy recovery. I extend my thoughts and prayers to their families during this difficult time,” he added.

The injured wardens are receiving medical treatment, and authorities have promised to provide both medical and psychological support to them and their families.

Broader Concerns About Attacks on Law Enforcement

This incident adds to a worrying trend of violent attacks against police and law enforcement personnel in South Africa. Criminal groups, often heavily armed, have targeted officers during routine operations ranging from traffic enforcement to anti-crime patrols.

Analysts warn that such attacks, if left unchecked, could further erode public trust in the state’s ability to maintain law and order. For Gauteng, the country’s most populous and economically important province, ensuring the protection of officers is critical to maintaining community safety.

Community Role in Combating Crime

The Gauteng Provincial Government has urged residents to work closely with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities and cooperating with crime prevention initiatives. Community policing forums (CPFs) are expected to step up engagements in areas such as Daveyton, which has struggled with violent crime in recent years.

Lesufi reiterated that criminals must not be allowed to dominate communities or threaten the safety of officers who risk their lives daily. “We must unite as society to ensure that our communities are safe, our officers are protected, and those who commit such heinous crimes face the full might of the law,” he said.

As the investigation continues, the provincial government has assured residents that security measures will be tightened to prevent similar incidents and reaffirmed its commitment to fighting crime head-on.