AmaPanyaza traffic officers
Gauteng crime wardens, AmaPanyaza. Picture: File.

Home » RTMC not sure about AmaPanyaza as Traffic Officers

RTMC not sure about AmaPanyaza as Traffic Officers

AmaPanyaza were recently conferred the new role of Gauteng Traffic Officers by Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola.

21-12-23 15:20
AmaPanyaza traffic officers
Gauteng crime wardens, AmaPanyaza. Picture: File.

The Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens, casually known as Amapanyaza, are likely to be paid to be spectators this festive season as the  Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has no plans for their service without full competence.

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AmaPanyaza were recently conferred the new role of Gauteng Traffic Officers by Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola. This directive came after a thorough analysis of the applicable legal frameworks were examined by the Ministry.

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However, speaking to Eyewitness News (EWN), RTMC CEO Makhosini Msibi told the publication that it is still studying whether the crime wardens introduced by Premier Panyaza Lesufi have the necessary training to become traffic officers. Ultimately, this leaves AmaPanyaza with no functional role in crime prevention or traffic management.

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 AmaPanyaza were once barred from undertaking police duties at police stations, a directive that was issued by Gauteng provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela last month.

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Nevertheless, the Premier and brainchild of the Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens, Panyaza Lesufi welcomed their new role early this month.

“We welcome this announcement that finally clarifies the uncertainty over the status of the Crime Prevention Wardens. This announcement affirms what we have said all along, that the CPWs are a legal, well-equipped provincial law enforcement body that collaborates with other law enforcement organisations in the province. They operate under the supervision of the other law enforcement agencies i.e. Gauteng Traffic and local authorities,” said Lesufi.

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