Lesufi welcomes establishment of two SAPS units aimed at tacking high-priority crimes

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has welcomed the establishment of two specialised units by the South African Police Service (SAPS) aimed at tackling high-priority crime threats in the province.

Lesufi said this is a key step in strengthening the fight against organised and violent crime.

The first unit is a Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), which will focus on investigating political assassinations and politically motivated killings of government officials.

The second unit will focus on crimes related to kidnapping, extortion, and offences targeting infrastructure projects.

“We welcome the creation of these units which we believe is going to assist to deal decisively with criminal behaviour. We are committed to working hard with our stakeholders to creating a peaceful for all our citizens,” said Gauteng government spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.

During the release of the province’s crime statistics, it was revealed that Gauteng has seen a spike in kidnappings and commercial crimes, as well as cash-in-transit hikes.