By Loxion News Reporter
Serious safety concerns have emerged in Gauteng after it was revealed that 24 vehicles used by the Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens, commonly known as Amapanyaza, are operating without valid licence discs. The disclosure follows a written response by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi to questions raised in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature.
The revelation comes amid growing public concern after a four-year-old girl in Evaton West was struck by a vehicle belonging to the Amapanyaza unit, which was reportedly operating with an expired licence disc. The incident has sparked renewed scrutiny over the compliance and oversight of the wardens’ fleet.
According to opposition leader Solly Msimanga, who raised the matter in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, authorities should take immediate action by impounding the affected vehicles and investigating officials responsible for allowing them to operate illegally.
In his response, Premier Lesufi confirmed that the Gauteng Department of Community Safety is aware that several Amapanyaza vehicles have expired licence discs dating back to August 2024. While the department reportedly paid for renewals, the discs were allegedly withheld due to the absence of valid roadworthy certificates.
Lesufi further indicated that no disciplinary action has yet been taken against officials responsible for the administrative lapse. Critics argue that this failure to ensure proper compliance has created dangerous loopholes, allowing government vehicles to remain on the road despite not meeting legal requirements.
During his recent address to the province, Premier Lesufi praised the work of the Amapanyaza unit, which was established to assist in crime prevention across Gauteng communities. However, opposition parties say the speech did not address concerns surrounding the unit’s conduct, including allegations of operating vehicles without proper documentation and confusion about the unit’s future after discussions around its possible disbandment.
Msimanga said the situation reflects a troubling double standard. “Ordinary motorists face penalties and fines for failing to comply with road laws, yet government vehicles appear to be operating without consequences,” he said.
The controversy has raised broader questions about accountability and vehicle compliance within provincial government departments, particularly those tasked with public safety responsibilities.
Calls are now growing for urgent action to ensure that all government-owned vehicles operating in Gauteng are roadworthy, legally registered, and properly monitored to protect both motorists and pedestrians.
