Cape Town – Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has expressed serious concern over rising crime in the province, saying it causes him “sleepless nights”, especially as Gauteng prepares to host the G20 summit in Johannesburg next year.
Speaking at a media briefing on his 100 days in office, Lesufi emphasised the need for increased investment in fighting crime to ensure the safety of visitors and residents.
“If people come here, we do not want them to be scared to walk around and enjoy our parks. We just have to invest in fighting crime,” Panyaza said.
Watch: Gauteng Premier #Panyaza Lesufi is briefing the media on the first 100 days since the establishment
of the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU). @IOL pic.twitter.com/GvrP0tSmTk— Kamogelo Vega (@Kamogelo_Vegaa) October 30, 2024
He added: “The level of crime in our province keeps me awake at night. There are many people who are playing God with people’s lives.”
He highlighted issues like violent crime, kidnappings, and extortion, and noted the provincial government’s new centralised approach to crime, which unites local, provincial, and national resources under national police leadership.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi says since 100 days in office, the government of provincial unity has signed a cooperation agreement with Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and the 3 metros to fight crime in the province.
Lesufi says Gauteng is performing poorly in fighting crime.
He… pic.twitter.com/JOL0xlFgIN
— Kaya News (@KayaNews) October 30, 2024
Lesufi also raised concerns about the poor condition of Gauteng’s Central Business Districts (CBDs) and announced a revitalisation effort beginning with Johannesburg, aiming to create cleaner, safer public spaces in time for the summit.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Picture: X/@Patricia_Bantom
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
