In a recent development, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s crime prevention wardens, commonly known as ‘amaPanyaza,’ have faced another setback as the province’s top cop issued a directive prohibiting them from performing police duties at police stations.
Gauteng provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela stated that they had received reports of community wardens certifying documents and assuming the responsibilities of peace officers at certain stations.
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Earlier this year, over 6,000 wardens were appointed to combat crime in communities after undergoing three months of training on a farm in Cullinan, Pretoria.
However, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela reminded officers and commanders in Gauteng that the wardens were not authorized to certify documents and were not considered peace officers. Gauteng police spokespersons confirmed the circulation of the internal document, which has recently been leaked on social media.
In a circular dated November 22, 2023, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela expressed concern that ‘amaPanyaza’ were acting as Commissioners of Oaths at police stations and community service centres.
He clarified that crime prevention wardens lacked the legal authority to certify or attest documents, as they were not peace officers.
The circular also emphasized that only SAPS members in the SC (Station Commander) were permitted to authenticate documents or perform the attestation of the Commissioner of Oath, as outlined in National Instruction 10 of 2020.
Lieutenant General Elias Mawela made it clear that under no circumstances should commanders allow crime prevention wardens to undertake any duties assigned to SAPS members.
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The internal circular was issued to address the misuse of authority by the wardens and to reinforce the boundaries of their responsibilities.
This development comes shortly after Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi faced criticism for his remarks regarding ministers who were obstructing the issuance of firearms to the Crime Prevention Wardens.
The controversy surrounding the wardens and their role in crime prevention continues to generate public debate.
