CCTV cameras unveiled in Soshanguve to boost safety

Soshanguve residents can expect a stronger fight against crime after Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi unveiled 28 closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance cameras across the township on August 14.

The move is part of the province’s intensified crime-fighting initiatives aimed at ensuring safety and security for communities.

Speaking at Giant Stadium in Soshanguve, Lesufi led a high-impact integrated service delivery operation, which combined on-site services, awareness campaigns, and direct engagement with residents.

The initiative was anchored on a collaborative law enforcement approach that brings together the metro police departments of Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni, along with the Gauteng crime wardens.

“These cameras have been placed in every corner so that we can see criminals before they commit a crime and arrest them.

“They will also capture vehicle plate numbers, which will help prevent motor vehicle theft,” said Lesufi.

The Premier emphasised that the technology is not just about monitoring crime after it happens, but about preventing it before it occurs.

He assured residents that the cameras would work hand in hand with other resources such as police vehicles, helicopters, horses, and scooters, ensuring that criminals have nowhere to hide in the township.

The integrated operation on Thursday resulted in the arrest of about 1 200 individuals for various crimes, including 75 undocumented foreign nationals.

Lesufi said such joint operations are critical for keeping communities safe, as they target and apprehend criminals who have been terrorising residents.

He said the CCTV network would be particularly important in safeguarding vulnerable groups, including women travelling to work or school.

“We have cameras that would help women against crime. No one is going to rob you of your cellphone or handbag while you are on your way to work,” he said.

He also highlighted the recent introduction of a new high-tech number plate system for Gauteng, which features digital tracking, anti-counterfeit measures, and tamper-evident security decals.

This system, according to Lesufi, will make it harder for criminals to clone number plates or steal vehicles.

During the event, Lesufi called on Gauteng SAPS Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni to prioritise the arrest of a suspected serial killer accused of murdering five women in Tshwane.

The victims were allegedly lured via social media with false promises of employment.

“We can’t allow serial killers in our province. Together with your law enforcement agencies, let’s ensure that all people doing wrong things in our areas are arrested.”

He also issued a warning to undocumented foreign nationals, stating, “If you are a foreign national, you must get your documents, and if you don’t have documents, leave.”

Residents welcomed the CCTV rollout, saying it would help deter criminals and restore a sense of safety in the community.

“This is a good step. We have been living in fear for years because criminals here are not scared of anything.

“If the cameras work properly and the police respond quickly, I believe we will see a big difference,” said 42-year-old Soshanguve Block X resident Thandi Mokoena.

Samuel Nkosi of Jukulyn said, “I am happy about the cameras, but I hope it’s not just for show. This issue of CCTV has been long overdue. Remember, they came here last year after that five-year-old was killed and promised us that we would be safe, but crime continues to happen in the community.

“If they really monitor these cameras and act fast when they see crime, then it will help us a lot.”

Lesufi reiterated the province’s commitment to making Soshanguve safer.

“We are here to ensure that no one lives in fear in their neighbourhood. Criminals must know their time is up.”

Do you have more information about the story?

Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East

For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok.