The incident, which left five wardens injured, occurred during a routine patrol of the area in the early hours of Sunday morning.

According to reports, the five wardens came under fire while attempting to search a group of some 12 suspects who retaliated with gunfire from high calibre weapons.

“This act of violence demonstrates utter disregard for the rule of law. Our wardens, together with law enforcement officers, serve daily on the frontlines to ensure the safety and security of our 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,” the Premier said.

A case of attempted murder has been opened with the South African Police Service.

“We are working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and face the full might of the law. 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,” Lesufi said.

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Gauteng Traffic Warden graduation ceremonies were held on 27 November at 10 Anti-Aircraft Regiment and 3 SA Infantry Battalion in Kimberly (567 graduates), 4 Artillery Regiment in Potchefstroom (544 graduates), and 1 Construction Regiment at Dunnottar (399 graduates).

The young men and women, recruited and put through a shortened version of basic military training (BMT) at the four SA Army units, will boost crime fighting, traffic control and undertake other community safety duties in South Africa’s most populous and economically active province.

“These Traffic Wardens are the boots on the ground, ready to ensure that Gauteng’s roads are safe and that law enforcement remains effective. Their dedication and discipline will help tackle challenges such as reckless driving, illegal street racing, and congestion management,” the Gauteng government said.

“The Gauteng Traffic Wardens are a vital component of the provincial government’s strategy to enhance road safety and traffic management. With a growing population and increasing vehicle numbers, Gauteng faces unique challenges in ensuring efficient and secure mobility. The additional training provided by the SANDF is a proactive step toward addressing these challenges,” the provincial government added.

MEC for Community Safety Faith Mazibuko, who attended one of the parades, reiterated the significance of the initiative: “This Pass-Out Parade is not just a celebration of their achievements; it is a commitment to the people of Gauteng that safety on our roads will always be a priority. We are proud of these wardens and the hard work they’ve put into their training.”

With the Traffic Wardens now deployed across the province, Gauteng residents can expect a stronger enforcement presence, quicker response times, and greater accountability on the roads. The wardens will also play a crucial role in addressing unsafe driving practices, supporting law enforcement during major events, and managing traffic flow during peak periods, the Gauteng government said.

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On Monday a video circulated on social media depicting a Gauteng Traffic Warden being assaulted.

“This incident is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in Gauteng. We call on the law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators of this violence and anarchy to book. There can never be a no-go area for law enforcers while carrying out their responsibilities in our province.

“These senseless attacks must be condemned and stopped. We call on all community members to work with us not against us in our efforts to fight crime in the province,” Lesufi said.

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety joined the chorus of condemnation and called on the Premier and Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni to “act swiftly against those who were involved in the assault”.

“This unjustifiable attack on law enforcement officials who serve to protect communities is not only a crime against individuals involved, but also a direct assault to the rule of law and undermines the safety and security of all citizens.

“The Committee stands firmly in support of Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens who risk their lives daily to maintain peace and order in the Province and believes that any form of violence against them must be met with the full might of the law.

“The Committee further calls on members of the public to assist the investigation by providing any information that could assist in ensuring that those responsible for this reprehensible act are swiftly brought to justice,” the committee said in a statement.

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