Gauteng crime prevention warden shot while responding to robbery in Germiston

A Gauteng crime prevention warden has been shot after responding to a robbery incident in Germiston CBD.

The Gauteng government said the incident took place on Wednesday at the Big O scrap metal shop.

Five wardens were on foot patrol when they were informed that a robbery was taking place at the shop.

An unknown suspect opened fire on the wardens, injuring Vinchenzo Lodewyk in the right leg.

At a media briefing on Thursday morning, acting community safety MEC, Jacob Mamabolo, said that a case of attempted murder had been opened.

"This incident underscores the urgent need to fast-track the full legal empowerment and resourcing of the traffic wardens, who are already playing a critical role in fighting crime alongside other law enforcement agencies. The Department of Community Safety is providing support to the affected officer and his family."

Last month, five wardens were hospitalised after being ambushed by armed men in Daveyton, leading to calls for better protection for the wardens who are nicknamed AmaPanyaza.