The Premier of Gauteng, Panyaza Lesufi, together with executive mayors and mayoral representatives from Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Midvaal, Lesedi, and Mogale City, publicly signed a groundbreaking agreement to bolster the province’s fight against crime through unified law enforcement efforts. The South African Police Service also became a signatory to the agreement, reinforcing cross-jurisdictional collaboration to root out crime in Gauteng.
“Today, the signing of this agreement does away with red tape and administrative bureaucracy. It ushers in a borderless Gauteng—one where we can jointly deploy resources to tackle crime. Wherever a drug dealer, murderer, thief, rapist, hijacker, or GBV perpetrator may be, we will find them. Municipal borders will no longer hinder our mission,” said Premier Lesufi.
He added: “We are doing this for one reason: to take Gauteng back from criminals. If we can’t get crime under control, we can’t fix the country. We won’t secure investment, peace, or safety for our citizens.”
Lesufi revealed that 450 known criminals have already been identified through intelligence-led operations. As of 15 April, 138 suspects had been arrested and 17 killed during operations, either while resisting arrest or in self-defence encounters with police.
Earlier yesterday, a law enforcement operation beginning at 5am led to the arrest of 318 suspects for various crimes. Among them, 157 were linked to gender-based violence. Authorities also apprehended 125 undocumented immigrants and recovered three illegal firearms. In addition, 1 386 traffic citations amounting to R25 000 were issued.
City of Johannesburg Executive Mayor, Cllr Dada Morero, emphasised the strategic value of the pact. “This agreement affirms our belief that safety is a top priority across Gauteng. It enables us to act as one, stronger force against criminals. The era of fragmentation is over. We must be resolute in our efforts to create safer cities where our residents can live and work without fear.”
He continued: “Let today’s signing be more than a symbolic gesture. Let it serve as the foundation of a long-term alliance among our cities—one that restores public trust, upholds the rule of law, and ensures strategic partnerships across all spheres of government are no longer optional, but essential.”
The ceremony builds on the landmark cooperation agreement signed in November 2024 by the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, the Government of Provincial Unity, and the three Gauteng metros.
Key highlights of the agreement include:
- Collaboration: Enhanced coordination between all three spheres of government;
- Long-Term Commitment: Joint investment in research, strategic planning, and continuous engagement to sustain a safer Gauteng; and
- Community Safety: Strengthened partnerships to protect communities.
Written by Virgil James
16/04/2025