The DA calls for the immediate impounding of the 24 Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens (Amapanyaza) vehicles, which are operating with an expired licence disc. Furthermore, decisive action should be taken against those who failed to ensure that all vehicles have valid licence discs and are roadworthy. There is no justification for these processes not running in parallel, as failure to do so creates loopholes that allow vehicles to operate illegally, placing motorists and pedestrians at risk.
In the wake of a 4-year-old girl in Evaton West hit by a Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens (Amapanyaza) vehicle operating with an expired licence disc, it has now emerged that 24 vehicles in the wardens’ fleet are on the road without valid discs, endangering the lives of citizens this unit is supposed to protect.
This shocking information was revealed by Premier Panyaza Lesufi in a reply to questions posed by the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL).
According to Premier Lesufi, the Department of Community Safety is aware that some Amapanyaza vehicles are in use with expired license discs dating back to August 2024, adding that despite paying for renewals, the discs remain withheld due to the lack of valid roadworthy certificates. Lesufi further admits that no one has been held accountable for this administrative lapse, attributable to the negligence of officials within his department.
During his State of the Province Address, Premier Lesufi praised the Amapanyaza for their work but ignored serious concerns about their conduct, including allegations of using unlicensed vehicles and nearly costing a young girl her life earlier this year. He also failed to clarify why the unit appears to be operating despite its announced disbandment.
Premier Lesufi should hang his head in shame. Under his watch, the Amapanyaza are operating with impunity, defying laws with no visible consequences, and putting lives at risk. Yet ordinary Gauteng residents face fines and penalties for violating road rules. This double standard erodes public trust, undermines the rule of law, and sends a dangerous message that accountability applies only to citizens.
A DA-led Gauteng Provincial Government would ensure that all GPG-owned vehicles operate in accordance with the law. Systems would be implemented to ensure that licence discs are renewed before expiry and that every vehicle remains roadworthy and compliant. Furthermore, we would provide clarity on the status of any unit policing our communities, as we have done where we govern.