These public safety agencies previously relied solely on a third party provincial TETRA radio network for their communications, but the lack of maintenance on this TETRA network impacted on the operations due to frequent dead zones which compromised officer communication and public safety, Hytera said in a statement.

To address the coverage blackspots and limited functionality in the existing system, Hytera deployed its PTC680 multi-mode advanced radios, which integrate TETRA and LTE networks in a single device.  “This approach fits the trend in communication technology alongside more traditional radio technology so that officers can communicate in areas where there is no radio coverage. When an officer roams outside the area of coverage, the radio will automatically and seamlessly switch between networks without the user having to manually change anything,” said senior spokesperson for Hytera South Africa, Cedric Mark Rigney.

The solution was also designed with cost-efficiency in mind. Hytera augmented and improved what the agencies already had, with a 3G or LTE network as a fallback. Now, this hybrid approach allows police, fire and ambulance personnel to stay connected with their colleagues and the control room, he added, thereby protecting the investment into narrowband.

With LTE, officers can even stream video back to the police control room to enhance situational awareness and improve decision-making. Similarly, paramedics can stream footage of a patient to doctors and other medical professionals for expert advice.

This has been a big win from the project, explained Rigney. “If, for example, there’s a cash-in-transit heist that resulted in a vehicle accident, different teams need to respond in a coordinated manner. So, they might need to dispatch an ambulance or fire truck, in addition to traffic personnel to manage any traffic congestion caused by the incident.”

The devices are also GPS-enabled, allowing a dispatcher to see the location of everyone and send the closest personnel to the incident. Should a citizen call in an incident, the dispatcher can quickly assign the closest officer and then monitor how far away help is. Much like your Uber app allows you to ‘watch’ your order in real time, the dispatcher can now track the first responder’s progress and then feed that information back to the person who reported the incident. This enables commanders and supervisors to manage their resources more efficiently and coordinate a response to any incident or emergency more quickly.

For the JMPD and EMS, this data is invaluable to improve service delivery, said Rigney. “Being able to accurately track things like how long it took for a dispatcher to close an incident, or how long it took for the person to reach the scene, it’s possible to identify where we are falling short and come up with strategies to improve the level of service we deliver,” Rigney continued.

“Emergency service professionals should be focused on saving lives, not battling communication challenges,” said Rigney. “With this project, we are not only solving operational pain points — we are helping create a safer, more responsive city for everyone in Johannesburg.”

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The suspects, aged between 20 and 35 years, were arrested on 17 May 2025 in Dobsonville, Soweto. The operation was conducted by a multi-disciplinary police unit of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation units from Vaal Rand and Pretoria, with the help of JMPD, EMPD, Provincial Crime Intelligence, and Gauteng Provincial Tracking Team.

One of the homes was where a white VW Polo, which is suspected to have been used in the ambush, was recovered. Additional leads had officers search another home where two firearms were recovered one of its serial number scratched off and another turned out to be the official firearm of the late JMPD member.

The police officer was gunned down on 15 May when he responded to an attempted robbery at Extension 1 in Vlakfontein’s Winchester Street. The initial reports indicated that the officers had seen and were walking towards the suspect vehicle. However, the suspects had opened fire, rendering the officer fatally injured and making off with the officer’s service pistol. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.

The first two suspects, both 27 and 25 years old, were apprehended shortly after the crime had been committed. All five suspects are already standing trial on charges of murder, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and defeating the ends of justice. They will appear before the Lenasia Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 19 May 2025.

A grim trend: Police officer killings on the rise

This latest attack adds to a deeply concerning trend of on-duty fatal attacks against police officers in South Africa.

According to the 2023/2024 annual crime report by the South African Police Service (SAPS), 73 police officers were killed between April 2023 and March 2024, where most of the killings occurred while performing official duties, like responding to robberies, stopping vehicles in traffic, and making arrests. This was up from the 64 officers killed in the prior year.

Of the total, 29 officers were killed while in service, and the remaining were off-duty when they were slain. The majority of these attacks were noted in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape, where Gauteng was a chronic leader among provinces with the highest police fatalities.

Commenting on this alarming trend, Gauteng Hawks Provincial Head, Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, praised the work concerted towards the speedy arrests:

“The message is clear; attacks on peace officers will not go unpunished. The rapid response and dedication of this multidisciplinary task team are to be applauded. We will continue to pursue individuals who endanger peace officers and hold them accountable to the full extent of the law,” said Maj. Gen Kadwa.

The South African Policing Union (SAPU) and Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) have previously called on the government on several occasions to include assaults on the police as treason or as a national priority crime, arguing that attacking the police compromises the democratic state and public security.

Stolen police firearms fuel crime wave

The theft of the slain officer’s service pistol also points to another worrying trend: the diversion of state firearms into the hands of criminals. Between 2021 and 2023, over 700 police-issued firearms went missing or were stolen, the Civilian Secretariat for Police statistics reveal. The firearms often resurface in hijackings, cash-in-transit heists, and contract killings, placing police and civilians in greater danger. As a response, safety plans and multi-disciplinary task units like the one in this probe have been introduced by the SAPS and metro departments to crack down on gun-running syndicates and organised crime cells. Critics say, however, that more proactive community-based intelligence and internal accountability processes are needed to prevent such tragedies.

Call for better protection and equipment

Security experts and policing lobby groups have also urged an intensification of work to improve the working environment of members, including increased intelligence coordination, tactical training, availability of protective gear, and trauma debriefing for members.

The SAPS Budget Vote for 2024 also includes R2.4 billion for crime prevention and police visibility, some of which will go towards increasing officer safety and improvements in technology.

With the nation in mourning once again for a lost officer, pressure continues to be placed on legislative and operational reforms to silence the violence directed at those who serve and protect.

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In the week from 28 April to 4 May 2025, the JMPD caught 115 drivers who were driving drunk. The crackdown, achieved through targeted roadblocks, undercover operations, and swift follow-ups on public tips, reflects not only a sobering snapshot of Johannesburg’s drinking-and-driving culture but also a rededicated determination on the part of law enforcement to rein it in.

This heightened enforcement is all the more dramatic as part of a broader citywide road safety campaign launched earlier this year by Commissioner Jaca, who has made traffic discipline a priority since taking command.

“Although the JMPD is working hard to enforce traffic law and arrest perpetrators, road safety is the responsibility of everyone,” Jaca stated following the arrests.

“We urge members of the public to make the right decisions, not to drink and drive, and to report suspected cases of driving under the influence. Your support is invaluable to assist in making our roads safer for everyone.”

A culture of impunity meets its reckoning

South Africa consistently ranks among the world’s highest road death tolls per capita. One of the contributing factors is alcohol, especially in city centers like Johannesburg where there is vibrant night life and a lack of public transportation after dark.

In most townships and affluent suburbs too, the sight of a driver casually taking a swig or speeding after a night out has long been greeted with a shrug. But Jaca’s JMPD is making it clear: those days are over.

“These arrests should serve as a wake-up call,” JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said.

“Drinking and driving is not only illegal – it’s deadly. With every arrest, we may be preventing a tragedy.”

Leadership that hears, acts, and holds the line

Commissioner Patrick Jaca’s rise to the helm of JMPD was not without attention. A seasoned officer with a track record for operational toughness, his appointment in early 2025 came with a public ultimatum: restore order to Johannesburg’s ever-lawless roads.

Jaca has wasted no time since taking office. In addition to drunk driving, cracking down on speeding taxi drivers, unlicensed cars, and drag racing – issues that have plagued Johannesburg’s roads and bred public doubt about traffic enforcement – are on his agenda.

But what sets Jaca apart is not just the scope of operations — it’s the thought behind them. The JMPD under his leadership has become increasingly intelligence-driven, making use of surveillance technology, community tip-offs, and data analysis to identify hotspots and repeat offenders.

“Enforcement isn’t just about setting up roadblocks anymore,” said one senior JMPD official, who asked not to be named. “It’s about knowing where to be, when to be there, and who to watch.”

Public response: relief, praise – and a warning

On the ground, the campaign is earning the approval of many residents, especially those who have lost loved ones to drunk drivers.

“I wish this was done years ago,” Nhlanhla Dube, whose brother was killed in 2021 by a drunk driver, responded.

“Too many have lost their lives because someone chose to drink and drive. This is long overdue.”

Others appreciated the increased presence of JMPD in hotspots of crime.

“These operations are bearing fruit – you can see it,” said Refilwe Molefe, a rideshare driver.

“I feel safer driving night shifts now.”

Not everyone is cheering, however. Some critics have argued that such crackdowns could disproportionately affect lower-income motorists who lack access to safe public transit or who rely on informal social events for recreation.

To this, the JMPD’s position remains the same: public safety is non-negotiable.

“We recognise the structural issues, but drunk driving under no circumstance is acceptable,” Fihla said.

“There are alternatives – phone a friend, use an e-hailing app, or designate a sober driver.”

What’s next?

With the success of this week’s operation, the JMPD says it will persist – and even escalate – its road safety campaigns. City-wide awareness campaigns, more intense weekend operations, and increased collaboration with the Gauteng Provincial Government to make late-night public transport more available are on the cards.

Commissioner Jaca also proposed the utilisation of mobile alcohol testing units and body cameras for traffic officers to ensure transparency and accountability.

“We’re just getting started,” he said.

“The people of Johannesburg deserve safe roads, and we will not rest until we deliver them.”

The bottom line

The JMPD’s message is straightforward and unbending: drink and drive, and you will be arrested. With a tough, targeted, and data-driven strategy, Chief Jaca is changing road safety enforcement in Johannesburg – one arrest at a time.

But while police officers can enforce the law, it’s the public who ultimately need to choose responsibility over recklessness.

Because every time someone makes the choice not to drive drunk, a life might just be saved.

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The 46-year-old officer was ambushed on duty on Monday, 14 April 2025. His murder sparked an enormous manhunt that reached a peak in a high-stakes, multi-agency operation which unfolded across Johannesburg on Wednesday, 16 April, and Thursday, 17 April 2025.

Following intelligence and CCTV evidence, JMPD Tactical Response and K9 Unit members collaborated with the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team, DPCI Germiston, Gauteng and Sedibeng Crime Intelligence, EMPD CLU, Gauteng Traffic Police SLEU, and private security personnel. The collaborative effort led to numerous arrests and the seizure of high-powered weapons and hijacked vehicles.

A Coordinated crackdown

The first part of the operation was done at Leondale, where officers arrested two suspects and recovered an AK47, an R5 rifle, and two handguns, one miraculously found stuffed in a refrigerator. Officers also took possession of a Toyota Rumion, used to kill one of the officers.

During a second search in the same suburb, the third suspect was apprehended identified on CCTV as the alleged gunman. He was found to be in possession of a pistol believed to be the weapon used for the murder, and a hijacked Toyota Urban Cruiser that was attributed to a Bramley SAPS case.

The investigation took a dramatic turn when the suspect revealed the whereabouts of Officer Mbambo’s hijacked service weapon. Acting with speed, the team extended its operation to the Lawley Station Informal Settlement on Thursday morning. There, they arrested a fourth suspect – reported to be the brother of the alleged shooter – and took away Officer Mbambo’s service pistol. Although the serial number had been removed, preliminary tests confirmed the identity of the firearm. A hijacked VW Polo Vivo, which was connected to a Westonaria case, was also found on the property.

“Justice for one of our own”

In his remarks on the success of the operation, JMPD Chief of Police Commissioner Patrick Jaca praised the diligent effort of all participating units.

“This was a mission of great personal importance. Officer Mbambo was one of our own – he wore the badge with honour,” Jaca said.

“The professionalism and accuracy employed in bringing his killers to book sends a clear message: we don’t back down when our officers, or our city, are targeted.”

Jaca put special emphasis on the department’s on-going commitment to dismantling violent criminal groups, noting that the operation is part of a broader strategy to bring together intelligence-led policing and multi-agency partnership.

A Legacy of effective crime fighting

This is not the first time that JMPD has delivered body blows to crime gangs. In recent years, the department has played a pivotal role in dispersing car hijacking syndicates, reclaiming hijacked vehicles, and shutting down illegal firearms supply chains.

In 2023, the JMPD made headlines after arresting a syndicate operating a hijacked-vehicle chop shop in Crown Mines and seizing over 40 vehicle shells and parts. In 2024, the Tactical Response Unit helped in the release of kidnapped victims in joint raids in Lenasia and Hillbrow. Strategic deployment of drone surveillance, public tips, and forensic mapping by the department has seen it push back against urban crime in hot spots like Turffontein, Hillbrow, and Diepsloot.

INFOSTRIP | JMPD CRIME-FIGHTING IMPACT AT A GLANCE (2023–2025)

• 2,300+ illegal firearms recovered
• 1,800+ hijacked/stolen vehicles recovered
• 97 successful sting operations with SAPS
• 450+ suspects arrested in drug-related raids
• 30 kidnapped victims rescued
• Rollout of AI-integrated surveillance tech in 5 hotspot zones
• Deployment of K9 units in 12 precincts

Source: JMPD Annual Operational Review & SAPS Joint Taskforce Reports

JMPD Spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla welcomed the recent arrests as proof of the growing success of integrated policing in Gauteng.

“We mourn the death of Officer Mbambo, but we are determined as well that those who are guilty are held before the entire power of the law,” Fihla stated.

“This isn’t one case – it’s about regaining the confidence of the public and telling criminals we’re always looking and we’ll act.”

The road ahead

The four suspects are currently in detention and will be appearing in court soon. The investigation continues, with forensic experts currently looking into the guns and cars recovered for links to other crime investigations.

With the assassination of Officer Mbambo, the JMPD rededicated its resolve to protect its officers as well as those people they took an oath to serve. With the city mourning the loss of a dedicated civil servant, the successful operation lends a glimmer of justice – and a message regarding what can be done when police forces unite in one agenda.

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The operation, led by MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela and Premier Panyaza Lesufi, got underway on Monday on the N12 Highway. There were blue flashing lights, roadblocks, and a strong police presence, the atmosphere tense but optimistic – just like the gravity of the work to be done.

“Crime has become too normalised in areas such as Slovo Park,” Diale-Tlabela told reporters at the scene.

“But that stops today. The Premier will shortly be announcing an integrated approach on crime. We are working together with community-based organisations in crime-ridden areas of the province. And today, our presence here is not symbolic – it’s action-oriented.”

Safety in numbers: A multi-layered approach

The Easter road safety campaign is not only about being seen. It’s a multi-faceted strategy involving municipalities, metropole police, public safety departments, and even private sector players such as Coca-Cola and Diageo, which have partnered with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) to tackle road safety dangers head-on.

“Easter is a time when families travel together, and we must ensure that they all arrive safe,” JMPD spokesman Xolani Fihla said. He agreed that over 112 motorists were already arrested this month on charges of drunk driving – a figure which he characterised as “alarming, but unfortunately not unexpected”.

To tackle this, the police have boosted patrols at hotspots like the Grasmere Toll Plaza, a gateway for thousands of visitors heading south from Johannesburg. There, the police are conducting stringent roadworthiness checks, monitoring speeding, and employing breathalysers to test for drunk drivers. Public transport vehicles are being closely watched in particular.

Education meets enforcement

But the campaign is not just about policing up. It’s also about building a safety-first culture through raising awareness in the public. At roadblocks, officers distribute booklets with essential Easter safety tips: plan ahead, avoid distractions, wear your seatbelt, and most importantly – do not drink and drive.

Lelethu Ndyamboti, the spokesperson for the City of Johannesburg’s Public Safety Department, believes the strategy is already yielding dividends.

“People must understand that safety is not just the responsibility of the government – it’s all of us,” Ndyamboti said.

“As a driver or as a pedestrian, your behavior can save lives or put them at risk.”

From Slovo Park to Grasmere: Crime has no holiday

In Slovo Park, where hijackings have been common and crime is rampant, people have welcomed the increased police presence. The area has been notorious for spiking cars – a criminal activity of placing sharp objects on the road in a bid to cause cars to stop, then leading to hijacking or robbery.

Speaking to media recently after the launch of the Easter safety initiative, a 43-year-old local resident Phumzile Khumalo said: “This campaign is a light in the darkness for communities like ours. We’ve been living in fear, especially during holidays. It feels like someone is finally listening.”

Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku, MMC for Public Safety in Johannesburg, echoed those sentiments.

“Safety doesn’t begin at the city gates – it starts in communities. That’s why we’re also urging citizens to make sure their vehicle documents are up to date and to stay vigilant, especially on highways and in rural stretches.”

Looking ahead: A safer Gauteng for all

As the official City of Johannesburg Easter safety campaign launches this Thursday, officials are preparing for a weekend of major traffic – and major danger. The buildup before the campaign is an indication of a province not soon to see Easter celebrations ruined by crime or tragedy.

“South Africans must be able to travel peacefully during this period,” said Diale-Tlabela.

“This campaign is not only for this Easter. It’s about building a culture of accountability, safety, and care on our roads and in our communities.”

As tourists pack their vehicles and head out to visit family and friends, one thing is certain: this Easter, Gauteng’s road keepers are on alert, working, and ready.

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“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.

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City Leadership Support City Speaker of the City of Johannesburg, Nobuhle Mthembu, sent her warmest congratulations to Jaca on his appointment, commenting on his service and dedication to public safety.

“Chief of Police Patrick Jaca, I take this chance to extend to you my warmest congratulations on your approval as Chief of Police of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) by the City of Johannesburg Council in full sitting,” stated Mthembu.

“With over three decades of experience in public safety, your dedication, sacrificial spirit, and passion to serve the people truly stand out. I am sure that these will bear a very positive effect on the city as well as its people.”

She also appreciated JMPD leadership, City of Johannesburg Mayoral Committee members, and all councillors of all political parties for trusting Jaca’s leadership.

“Having had the privilege of working with you previously in your role as Regional Operations Command in my area, Region F1, I am more than confident in your ability and capabilities. I look forward to working with you as we strive to create a safer, crime-free city for all,” she added.

An experienced Commander for a crucial job, Jaca formally accepted his appointment as Chief of Police on 1 February 2025 following his recommendation by the Johannesburg Metro Council. The appointment has been ratified unanimously, with MMC for Public Safety, Cllr Mgcini Tshwaku, thanking him for his integrity and vision.

“Chief Jaca’s profound experience and unwavering commitment to justice make him the ideal leader to lead JMPD to excellence and ensure a safer Johannesburg for everyone,” Tshwaku told media recently.

Jaca’s life, from Alexandra Township, is an example of determination and uncompromising commitment to service. He began his career in policing in 1988 at the Alexandra Traffic Department and later joined the JMPD in 2001. The decade witnessed him moving up the ranks, doing creditably in crime prevention, by-law enforcement, and community policing. His leadership is defined by discipline, forward policing, and strategic innovation.

Priorities for a safer Johannesburg under Jaca’s leadership, the JMPD will be implementing a series of strategic initiatives to improve public safety as well as enforce the law more effectively. His priorities are:

•Strengthening the By-law Management Unit to ensure stricter enforcement.

•Increasing the Inner-City Rejuvenation Project to restore safety and order.

• Increasing crime intelligence to assist in controlling violent crime and organized syndicates.

•Improving road safety and traffic management to reduce fatalities.

• Building public trust through ethics and accountability in policing.

• Increasing officer presence and response times in hotspots.

• Using technology to have smarter crime prevention and traffic systems.

Despite the challenges ahead, Jaca is optimistic about the future of policing in Johannesburg. “We are at a turning point. My focus is on creating a disciplined, proactive force that rebuilds trust with the community and acts decisively against crime,” he said recently in an interview.

A vision for the future Jaca envisions JMPD with professionalism, innovation, and integrity. His vision of recruiting job posts, forging partnerships, and applying technology is going to transform the department into an unconquerable force in crime fighting.

“We will create a force that is feared by criminals but respected by people. By setting the very highest standards of service, we will make Johannesburg safe for all,” he pledged.

As the city prepares to celebrate Jaca’s inauguration, expectations have been revived that his government will introduce the long-sought transformation in Johannesburg policing and lead the metropolis to its aspired safe and prosperous position.

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