Gang violence and illegal guns spark fear in Joburg South
More than 15 gang attacks have taken place since September 2024, leaving people in South Hills, Moffat View and Rosettenville living in fear, while police ask the public to help by sharing any information.
Johannesburg South remains a treacherous place to live due to a surge in gang violence and the proliferation of illegal firearms, particularly in areas like South Hills, Moffat View and Rosettenville.
The alarming trend has raised serious concerns about the safety and stability of communities, with at least 15 gang-related violent incidents recorded since September 2024. The violence includes drive-by shootings and targeted assassinations.
These crimes are no longer confined to specific areas but are spilling into residential neighbourhoods, disrupting lives and instilling fear.
Colonel Shunny Govender, Station Commander at the Moffat View Police Station, has been a key role player in combating gang violence in the South.
‘We have seen a surge in gang violence in Joburg South over the past three years. Senseless shootings resulting from petty altercations result in murders. Gang turf wars are also suspected of being behind assassinations or drive-by shootings. As police, we need to keep our communities safe. In order to do this, the communities need to give us at least some information—whether through anonymous tip-offs or official statements,’ said Govender.
Member of the Provincial Legislature, Sergio Isa Dos Santos, has expressed deep concern over the continued violence.
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‘Gang violence has become a major issue in our communities. Shootings, stabbings, robberies and even kidnappings are taking place in Joburg South. We need a collaborative effort between communities, all law enforcement agencies, and political representatives to enact real change,’ said Dos Santos.
The role of illegal firearms
• Fuel for turf wars: Illegal weapons are enabling gangs to operate with deadly force and impunity.
• Easy access: The flow of unregistered, untraceable firearms onto the streets is a growing concern.
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The need for decisive action
• Urgency: Government must take urgent, coordinated and sustained action to combat gang violence and eliminate illegal firearms.
• Accountability: The lack of effective policies and enforcement has worsened the crisis.
Potential solutions
• Recover illegal firearms: Launch a province-wide drive to recover illegal weapons, offer incentives for anonymous tips, and enforce stricter firearm control laws.
• Community-police partnerships: Strengthen community safety initiatives, resource local policing, and implement targeted awareness campaigns.
• Smart surveillance: Introduce gunshot detection systems and smart surveillance in hotspot areas to improve response times and support investigations.
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Report it:
To report gang activity, contact Moffat View SAPS on 071 675 6330.
Alternatively, use these national SAPS channels:
10111 – For all police emergencies
08600 10111 – Crime Stop (report crimes anonymously)
MySAPS App – Download via mobile to submit tips anonymously or visit your nearest police station.
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