Soshanguve divided over Gauteng crime plan

Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s latest service delivery address in Soshanguve has drawn sharp criticism from some residents, who dismissed it as a waste of state resources and accused the government of being out of touch with community realities.

The Gauteng Provincial Government hosted scores of residents at Giant Stadium in the township to outline its latest efforts to tackle the area’s high crime rate.

However, some residents expressed frustration and disappointment, describing the event as a mere “talk shop” that lacks real solutions.

“We don’t trust anything the government or the police say anymore. Police take bribes from spaza shops. These officials are out of touch—we don’t even know who to turn to anymore,” said one resident.

Another community member echoed the sentiment, accusing politicians of using the event to curry favour ahead of elections.

Soshanguve has long struggled with rampant crime, and one of the most devastating incidents this year was the gruesome killing of six community patrollers in the Marry Me informal settlement, where victims were reportedly shot, stoned, and burned to death.

Residents believe the attack was carried out by undocumented foreign nationals, a claim that has intensified anti-immigrant sentiment in the area.

During his address, Premier Lesufi, announced the installation of 28 CCTV cameras across Soshanguve as part of a broader surveillance strategy aimed at curbing crime. He said the cameras would help track criminal movements and record vehicle license plates.

But skepticism remains high.

“Cameras won’t stop crime. People have cameras on their homes, and criminals still break in. If someone wants to commit a crime, they will. Some even cover their faces,” said 25-year-old Thabo Koma.

Koma suggested that a more effective solution would be a 24/7 visible police presence in every community to allow for real-time crime intervention.

Despite the criticism, some residents welcomed aspects of the Premier’s initiatives—particularly the crackdown on undocumented immigrants.

Law enforcement conducted targeted operations across the township, closing off certain streets and conducting vehicle searches. According to Lesufi, over 75 undocumented immigrants were identified and arrested during the operation.

One resident says they are grateful that they are being prioritised.

Another added, “These officials are working. They managed to catch many undocumented immigrants today, so I think we’re getting somewhere.”

As Gauteng grapples with its crime challenges, today’s mixed reactions highlight both deep public frustration and cautious optimism about the government’s latest efforts to restore safety in communities like Soshanguve.

MEC Bonginkosi Dhlamini, together with fellow members of the Executive Council, joined Premier Panyaza Lesufi at the Integrated Provincial Service Delivery operations held at Giant Stadium in Soshanguve, Tshwane. #GrowingGautengTogether#SaferGauteng

— Gauteng e-Government (@GautengeGov) August 14, 2025

Written by: Odirile Rabalao