Katlego Sekhu
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has strongly condemned a violent attack on members of the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) during an operation in Westbury, Johannesburg.
On Tuesday afternoon, AGU members were conducting routine patrols and stop-and-search operations along Steytler Street in Westbury when they arrested a suspect found in possession of drugs.
Moments after the arrest, a group of community members began pelting the officers with rocks and bottles, forcing the police to tactically withdraw while ensuring the safety of the very residents attacking them.
The AGU, a specialised SAPS unit, is tasked with combating gang-related crimes such as drug trafficking, gang shootings, and murders. In Gauteng, the unit operates in identified hotspots including Eldorado Park, Westbury, Moffatview, Southhills, Mohlakeng, Toekomsrus, and Sophiatown.
General Masemola voiced his disappointment at the incident, particularly given ongoing community concerns about high levels of gang violence and drug activity in the area.
“The community of Westbury have from time to time been complaining about the high levels of crime including drug dealing in the area,” said General Masemola.
“We have deployed the anti-gang unit to deal decisively with this type of crime, but it seems as though when police take charge and enforce the law, communities turn on them and attack them. We cannot allow such a situation. We need the community to appreciate, support and work with the police and not attack them.”
He stressed that SAPS will not tolerate acts of lawlessness and vowed that the police will continue their work without fear or favour.
Despite the confrontation, no officers or police vehicles were harmed, thanks to the unit’s controlled response, which included firing a warning shot to disperse the crowd.
General Masemola further encouraged members of the AGU to remain committed to their mission of reducing gang violence and criminal activity in affected communities.
The Siz The World team discussed the events on Wednesday morning and invited listeners to weigh in. Listen to the full discussion on the podcast.
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