Manhunt
By Mpho Moloi
A manhunt is underway after five traffic wardens were shot and wounded while on patrol in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni, on Sunday, with suspects using high-calibre weapons including an AK-47 and pistol during an attempted search at the railway station. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi strongly condemned the attack as a senseless act of violence and plans to visit the injured at Daveyton Main Clinic on Monday to convey provincial support.
Details of the Ambush Incident
The shooting occurred in the early hours of Sunday, 7 September 2025, around 02:00 AM, when Gauteng Traffic Wardens, also known as AmaPanyaza, were conducting a routine patrol near Daveyton Railway Station. According to police reports, the wardens confronted a group of about 12 unknown men and attempted to search them. During the process, one suspect broke away and opened fire on the wardens’ bus using an AK-47 rifle and a pistol.
Two female and three male wardens were injured in the attack and rushed to local hospitals and clinics for treatment. Their conditions have not been disclosed, but all survived the incident. Police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed: “Five of the injured wardens were taken to local hospitals for treatment. A case of attempted murder has been opened for further investigations.”
The suspects fled the scene before backup arrived and remain at large. SAPS has opened an attempted murder case at Daveyton Police Station under CAS 105/09/2025, condemning the assault as a brazen attack on law enforcement. Authorities have appealed to the public for information to aid in apprehending the perpetrators.
Premier Lesufi’s Condemnation and Visit
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a “senseless act of violence” and a blatant disregard for the rule of law.
“Our wardens, together with law enforcement officers, serve daily on the frontlines to ensure the safety and security of our communities. Any form of violence, intimidation, or interference with the work of our officers is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” the statement read.
“We are working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and face the full might of the law. I commend the wardens for their bravery and commitment under such dangerous circumstances and wish them a speedy recovery. I extend my thoughts and prayers to their families during this difficult time.”
Premier Lesufi will visit the injured wardens at Daveyton Main Clinic on Monday morning to convey support on behalf of the provincial government.
Background on Gauteng Traffic Wardens and Crime in Daveyton
The Gauteng Traffic Wardens, part of the AmaPanyaza initiative launched in 2023, are community-based crime prevention officers deployed to high-crime areas to support police in patrols, searches, and maintaining order. Numbering over 6,000, they focus on reducing violent crime and illegal activities in townships like Daveyton, which has seen rising incidents of gang violence, drug trafficking, and assaults on officials.
Daveyton, in Ekurhuleni, has been a hotspot for crime, with recent reports of shootings, robberies, and protests over service delivery. In 2024, the area recorded over 200 violent crimes, including murders and attempted murders, per police statistics. Attacks on law enforcement are not uncommon; in January 2025, two suspects were arrested for fatally shooting a traffic warden in a similar ambush.
This incident underscores the dangers faced by wardens, who often operate in volatile environments without full police armament. Social media reactions highlighted concerns over their safety, with users calling for better protection and armament.
Ongoing Manhunt and Police Response
SAPS has launched a full-scale manhunt, deploying additional resources to track the suspects. No arrests have been made yet, but investigators are reviewing CCTV footage from the railway station and appealing for witnesses. The motive remains unknown, though speculation points to resistance against searches possibly linked to illegal activities like smuggling or gang operations.
Gauteng’s Department of Community Safety echoed Lesufi’s condemnation, vowing to enhance patrols in the area. “We will not tolerate attacks on our officers,” a spokesperson said.
🔴 Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 115 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition of Central News | Headline: Ngwathe Municipality Refuses to Back Down, Heads to Supreme Court of Appeal
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Central-News-Issue-115-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube