Lesufi Confirms Two Brazilian Pilots Among Isolated G20 Incidents as 13 Arrests Made
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has shed light on one of the more unusual incidents tied to the recent G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, confirming a dispute involving two Brazilian pilots and women they met at an entertainment venue over unpaid transaction fees. This comes as police reported 14 cases linked to the event, resulting in 13 arrests. While the summit itself ran smoothly, these isolated events highlight the challenges of hosting a major international gathering, from protests to personal squabbles. Lesufi praised the overall security efforts, noting that the province delivered a safe and successful event despite minor disruptions.
The G20 Summit, held from 22 to 23 November 2025 at the Nasrec Expo Centre, marked the first time such a high-level meeting occurred on African soil. It drew world leaders, delegates, and media, boosting the local economy by an estimated R1 billion. However, the arrests—mostly related to protests—underscore underlying social tensions, while the pilots’ case adds a quirky twist to the proceedings. As Gauteng moves forward with legacy initiatives from the summit, officials are reflecting on lessons learned to enhance future events.
Police Report 14 Incidents with 13 Arrests During Summit
Gauteng police confirmed 14 reported cases directly connected to the G20 Summit, leading to 13 arrests. These ranged from public violence and assaults during protests to more personal disputes. The heightened security, with an additional 3,500 officers deployed, ensured the main venue remained secure, but peripheral areas like Soweto saw some unrest.
Between 17 and 20 November 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested approximately 1,799 people across the province for various crimes, including infrastructure vandalism, theft, kidnapping, intimidation, extortion, and contact crimes like assault, rape, murder, attempted murder, and house robberies. While not all were summit-related, the G20 period saw an uptick in enforcement to maintain order.
Premier Lesufi, in the Gauteng Post G20 Hosting statement issued on 25 November 2025, commended law enforcement for their professional presence, which upheld high standards of security and protocol. “Our law enforcement agencies, with their professional and visible presence, ensured a safe and secure environment for all delegates and citizens,” he said.
The Brazilian Pilots’ Dispute: A Bizarre Payment Row
One standout incident involved two Brazilian pilots who arrived in South Africa for the summit. According to Lesufi, the pilots got into a dispute with women they met at an “entertainment” venue—believed to be a nightclub or similar spot in Sandton—over transaction fees. Reports suggest the women, described as hostesses or prostitutes, accosted the pilots after they allegedly failed to pay for services provided.
The altercation escalated into a confrontation, with the women demanding payment, leading to a police report. While no arrests were made in this case, it was logged as one of the 14 incidents. Details from media outlets indicate the pilots were “taught a lesson” by the women for non-payment, turning a night out into a chaotic episode.
This unusual event contrasts with the summit’s formal proceedings but illustrates the diverse challenges during such gatherings. Sandton, a hub for visitors during the G20, saw increased activity in hospitality and entertainment, which sometimes led to personal disputes. Officials have not released further details on the pilots’ identities or any follow-up actions, but the incident has sparked light-hearted commentary on social media about cultural misunderstandings and the risks of nightlife in Johannesburg.
Protest Clashes Lead to Key Arrests
Several arrests stemmed from protests near the summit venue. On Saturday, 22 November 2025, members of the anti-immigrant group Operation Dudula clashed with police in Soweto, attempting to block the Bara-Nasrec access road used by delegates. Two men, aged 46 and 54, were arrested for public violence and assaulting a police officer, who was injured and taken to a medical facility.
Videos from the scene showed tensions boiling over as protesters voiced grievances about immigration and economic issues. Police fired rubber bullets to disperse the crowd, preventing further escalation. Operation Dudula claimed their demonstration was peaceful, aimed at highlighting job losses to foreigners, but authorities maintained the arrests were necessary to protect public safety.
The MK Party also staged protests, adding to the unrest. These events drew criticism for potentially tarnishing the summit’s image, but police managed to keep disruptions away from the main venue. Lesufi acknowledged the right to protest but urged groups to engage constructively, emphasising unity during a time of global spotlight on Gauteng.
Successful Security and Coordination Efforts
Despite the incidents, the summit was hailed as a resounding success. Extensive preparations included infrastructure upgrades like pothole repairs, streetlight fixes, and new road markings. An integrated traffic management plan ensured smooth transport for delegations, while Johannesburg Water and City Power maintained essential services without interruptions.
Security featured a unified force of SAPS, traffic police, and metropolitan departments, with CCTV networks and an activated Gauteng Disaster Management Centre. The Beautification and Greening Programme cleared dumping sites and planted trees, enhancing the province’s appearance.
Lesufi extended gratitude to partners, including residents, national agencies like ACSA and SANRAL, municipal entities such as JRA and JMPD, taxi associations, traditional leaders, and labour groups. “We extend our most heartfelt gratitude to the residents of Gauteng… You were the true hosts of this historic event,” he said.
Economic Boost and Lasting Legacy
The summit generated an estimated R1 billion from thousands of visitors, surging demand for hotels, transport, and local businesses. A comprehensive economic impact report is due early next year, but early signs point to priceless global exposure, with G20 countries accounting for 78% of the world economy and 58% of South Africa’s international visitors.
Lesufi announced converting the G20 coordination team into a permanent legacy structure, aligning with the province’s 13 priorities. This includes expanding cleanup campaigns, beautification programmes, and anti-littering initiatives. Future events like the LIV International Golf Tournament in March 2026 and 2027 ODI Cricket World Cup matches at Wanderers and Centurion will build on this momentum.
The Gauteng Local Government Turnaround Summit’s resolutions, such as upgrading infrastructure and combating crime, gained urgency from the G20 preparations. Priorities include water and electricity upgrades, addressing revenue challenges, tackling undocumented nationals, preventing land invasions, and revitalising CBDs.
Reflections on a Historic Event
As Gauteng celebrates the summit’s success, the 14 incidents and 13 arrests serve as reminders of real-world challenges. Lesufi’s transparency on cases like the Brazilian pilots’ dispute shows a commitment to accountability. With lessons learned in agile governance and collaboration, the province aims to become a preferred host for global events, positioning itself as Africa’s gateway.
Residents are called to join anti-littering efforts and combat vandalism, fostering a cleaner, safer Gauteng. The G20 not only boosted the economy but also united teams for lasting progress, as Lesufi noted: “This was not the G20 for the province. It was for the whole continent.”
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