Katlego Sekhu

Gauteng’s crime prevention wardens have been declared peace officers. The spokesperson for the Joburg Metro Police Department, Xolani Fihla, joined Sizwe Dhlomo to answer a few questions about the difference in the powers afforded to wardens and those that lie with the JMPD.
Fihla emphasised that peace officers can operate independently or in collaboration with the JMPD.
“At this present moment, we do know that the crime prevention wardens work under the Gauteng Department of Community Safety. It is the same department where the Gauteng traffic police are working. They are working closely within that aspect of the law.”
Regarding their authority on the roads, Fihla explained that peace officers can stop vehicles and issue citations if they are granted traffic officer powers.
He also clarified that South African laws stipulate a minimum of six weeks of training to qualify as a peace officer.
“However, it does restrict you to some aspects, especially with the crime prevention wardens at the present moment, before transitioning into traffic officials. They can’t man roadblocks. They can’t control traffic on the roads, but they are working closely with the JMPD, SAPS, and Gauteng police, and we assist them in those aspects.”
Listen to the in-depth discussion on 959 Breakfast.
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