A video has surfaced online showing Amapanyaza wardens assaulting a woman in Randburg.
Story Summary:
- A video shows Amapanyaza wardens allegedly assaulting a woman in Randburg.
- The Gauteng government has launched an investigation into the incident.
- Amapanyaza wardens have faced previous allegations of misconduct and abuse of power.
Amapanyaza investigated over Randburg assault
The Gauteng government is investigating an incident involving its crime prevention wardens, known as Amapanyaza, after a video emerged showing them allegedly assaulting a woman in Randburg.
The footage, which circulated widely on social media, shows a male officer appearing to give a command before the woman is aggressively handled by the wardens.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the conduct of these wardens, who were introduced by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi as part of a broader initiative to combat crime in the province in 2023.
The program, which deployed 6,000 wardens, has faced criticism from civil society groups who feared that inadequate training could lead to abuses of power.
In response to the growing backlash, the Gauteng government issued a statement condemning the actions seen in the video and confirmed that an investigation is underway.
“We are investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident to ensure that the appropriate actions are taken. The department reiterates its commitment to serving the community with respect and fairness, and we will not tolerate any conduct that undermines these values,” the statement read.
This is not the first time the Amapanyaza wardens have been accused of misconduct.
Reports have surfaced in recent months about the wardens conducting searches without proper authorisation, leading to allegations of harassment and assault.
