Chaos at Daveyton Railway Station: Five Traffic Wardens Shot

A routine patrol turned into a nightmare for Gauteng Traffic Wardens in the early hours of Sunday when gunmen unleashed heavy fire at Daveyton Railway Station, Ekurhuleni.

The attack, reportedly carried out with high-calibre weapons including an AK-47 and a pistol, left five wardens, two women and three men, injured. They are currently receiving medical treatment in hospital.

A direct attack on law enforcement

Speaking from Pretoria, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi condemned the incident as a brazen assault on the rule of law.

“Our wardens, alongside other law enforcement officers, serve daily on the frontlines to protect our communities. This act of violence shows utter disregard for the law. We will not allow intimidation or attacks to deter our officers from doing their work,” Lesufi said.

Lesufi praised the courage of the wardens under fire, adding that the province is working closely with police to track down the perpetrators. “Those responsible will face the full might of the law. I commend the bravery of the wardens and wish them a speedy recovery. My thoughts are with their families during this difficult time,” he said.

Investigation underway

Ofentse Morwane, spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Community Safety, confirmed that the wardens had been attempting to search a group of approximately twelve individuals at the station when they were fired upon.

The Daveyton police have opened a case of attempted murder, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend those behind the attack.

Premier to visit injured wardens

In a show of support, Premier Lesufi announced he will visit the injured wardens in hospital on Monday, reinforcing the provincial government’s commitment to support law enforcement personnel and their families during challenging times.

Wardens: the frontline of community safety

The attack has sparked concern across Gauteng and on social media, where residents expressed outrage at the targeting of officers serving the public. Many highlighted the dangerous conditions under which “Amapanyaza”, the provincial crime wardens, operate daily.

Designated as peace officers in 2023 under Section 334 of the Criminal Procedure Act, these wardens have the same authority as traffic officers, making their safety crucial for maintaining law and order in communities like Daveyton.

{Source: IOL}

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