Fourways has seen an unusual development on its busy roads, security officers in camouflage with a touch of green are now stationed around the clock at traffic lights to prevent vandalism and restore order at some of the area’s most congested intersections.

For months, traffic in the area has been disrupted by non-functioning signals, many of which were allegedly deliberately damaged.

Read more: Councillor links rise in crime to faulty traffic lights in Ward 93

According to authorities, residents and ward councillors, some informal “traffic directors” tampered with cables to disable the robots, stepping in to control traffic and solicit money from motorists.

Now, with the intervention of the Fourways Improvement District (FID) and its security partners, those practices are being challenged.

“In the beginning, we were dealing a lot with people vandalising the traffic lights. They would damage the robots so they could direct traffic and make money from motorists,” said Innocent Ditshego, a security officer with Fidelity Services Group contracted under the FID.

“But now, it’s better. The traffic flows, and we are making sure the robots are safe. It’s not easy, but we love our work protecting people and property in Fourways.”

His colleague, Bayanda Mbatha, said that while their role goes beyond the traditional boundaries of security work, they have adapted quickly.

Also read: Fourways traffic lights fail again, after just 2 weeks

“We patrol, chase away vendors, beggars, and anyone who isn’t allowed to operate in the intersections. If someone is difficult, we call our reaction team or even the JMPD to assist. We don’t use force; we try to reason with people first.”

For the officers, the work comes with unique challenges. Unlike guarding entrances or buildings, standing at intersections places them in the middle of chaotic traffic patterns and occasional hostility. But still, they remain committed to the task.
Ward 94 Councillor David Foley said the interventions are already making a visible difference in the area.

“This whole corner of Fourways Boulevard and Cedar Road was becoming an informal taxi rank. There were 20 to 30 vendors, and residents were complaining. Together with the Fourways Improvement District, the mall, and Fidelity, we’ve put measures in place, like walls, vegetation clearing, and security presence, to keep the area safe and orderly.”

He added that long-term beautification projects are also underway. “You’ll notice new plants and trees along key intersections. When people come to shop at Fourways, they should already feel a sense of calm and a village-like atmosphere. This is all thanks to the teamwork behind the Fourways Improvement District.”

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!