The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) enters a new chapter with Patrick Jaca assuming office as Chief of Police. Jaca envisions professionalism, innovation, and integrity, and has promised to transform the JMPD into a force that will be feared by criminals, but respected by the public.
“We will build a force that reflects the highest possible standards of service,” he stated.
“By filling vacancies, cementing partnerships, and leveraging technology, we will make Johannesburg a safer city for all.”
Jaca’s appointment is a major milestone for the city’s law enforcement. Born in Alexandra Township, his career has stretched for more than three decades, starting in 1988 at the Alexandra Traffic Department, and later joining the JMPD in 2001. He rose through the ranks and became renowned for his dedication to crime prevention, by-law enforcement, and community policing.
His leadership comes at a time when Johannesburg is facing increasing urban crime, road safety concerns, and a demand for more vigorous by-law enforcement.
Chief of Police Jaca has established key priorities that will strengthen law enforcement and public safety:
– Restoring professionalism and accountability within the JMPD.
– Strengthen the by-law management unit to enforce tougher regulations.
– Revitalising the Inner-City Rejuvenation Project to bring back order and safety.
– Enhancing crime intelligence to dismantle organized syndicates and combat violent crime.
– Improving road safety and traffic management to reduce fatalities.
– Increasing officer visibility and response times in hotspots of crime.
– Introducing smart technology to modernize crime prevention and traffic systems.
Jaca acknowledges there is a challenging journey ahead but is optimistic.
“We are at a crossroads. My priority is to build a disciplined, proactive force that restores trust in the community and acts decisively against crime. We will build a force feared by criminals but trusted by the people. By filling vacancies, strengthening partnerships, and leveraging technology, we will ensure the highest standards of service,” he affirmed.
Under Jaca’s leadership, the JMPD will be modernizing its operations with investments in cutting-edge surveillance systems, data-driven policing, and electronic crime prevention systems. Partnerships with the local business community, community leaders, and other law enforcement agencies will also be at the core of improving crime-fighting strategies.
With a focus on efficiency, moral policing, and public participation, Jaca envisions a revived JMPD that not only enforces the law but also creates trust between citizens and officers.
As the new Chief of Police, Jaca’s leadership signals a new era for the JMPD one that prioritizes security, innovation, and public confidence. With a bold strategy and a commitment to excellence, he is set to steer Johannesburg towards a safer and more secure future.
Meanwhile, MMC for Public Safety, Cllr Mgcini Tshwaku, congratulated Jaca, praising his integrity, vision, and dedication.
“Chief Jaca’s extensive experience and unwavering commitment to justice make him the ideal leader to steer the JMPD towards excellence and ensure a safer Johannesburg for all,” said Tshwaku.
South African Police Services (SAPS) Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy praised Jaca’s inauguration as a positive step towards destroying crime in Johannesburg.
“Jaca is one of our heroes who is feared by criminals as he was always present on the streets to frustrate criminals. He always instilled fear in criminals and JMPD officers were respected during his time, this inauguration is a well-deserved one.”
He further appealed to Jaca to restore hope to the citizens of Johannesburg.
“Make women and children feel safer as the leader of this area. I take it that the fight to bring law and order to Johannesburg has commenced with your inauguration. You are appointed by your excellence and not by accident, we believe you are the right man for the job, so make us proud as citizens and SAPS, “he added.
