The Gauteng government has rolled out a fleet of new police vehicles as part of its ongoing efforts to combat lawlessness in the province.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi delivered an emphatic keynote address at the vehicle handover ceremony held in Midrand, highlighting the critical need for action against escalating crime rates.
Speaking to a gathering of community leaders and law enforcement officials, Lesufi emphasised that the newly allocated vehicles would significantly bolster the South African Police Service (SAPS) in its ongoing battle against crime.
“Today we are declaring something that is really important, no excuse,” he asserted. “We have done everything humanly possible to turn around the tide of lack of resources to be where we are.”
Lesufi’s remarks were complemented by a report on the substantial investments made in police resources over the past 18 months.
He also proudly noted the acquisition of three helicopters, over 12 000 CCTV cameras, and 12 000 traffic wardens aimed at strengthening the province’s law enforcement capabilities.
“And I am proud to remind you, provincial commissioner. In the last 18 months in your hands, we have given you three new helicopters to support your work. In the last 18 months, we have now given you more than 12 000 CCTV cameras for you to know what is happening in the province.
“In the last 18 months, including today, I am proud that we have given you not less than 700 new cars,” Lesufi continued, stressing the importance of visibility for police forces.
His ambitious vision extended even further: “If I had my wishes, I would also be part of the ceremony to publicly hand out rifles and guns to use so that society would see that we mean business. Unfortunately, that is a serious limitation, and it is beyond my control.”
Importantly, Lesufi made it clear that Gauteng must not remain a haven for criminals. He declared: “Criminals must know they must go somewhere rather than take chances in Gauteng.”
Addressing the geographical distribution of the resources, Lesufi highlighted that the largest share would be allocated to the Johannesburg region, a key area that has faced significant challenges regarding safety.
“If we can’t bring back Johannesburg CBD to be the safest area in our province, we would have failed in our mission,” he stated firmly, setting a high benchmark for law enforcement agencies in their quest for a safer urban environment.
The Star