SANDF arrives in Westbury as part of crime-combating efforts

Dozens of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers are moving through Westbury in armoured vehicles, searching properties for contraband and illegal firearms.

This operation is part of ongoing efforts to restore law and order in some of Gauteng’s most crime-ridden areas. In his State of the Nation Address this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa committed to supporting the police by bolstering boots on the ground with the SANDF as they continue to fight crime.

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The SANDF began its visibility patrols in Eldorado Park before moving through Riverlea.

The operation is now focused on Westbury, with teams expected to move into Sophiatown later on Wednesday.

Soldiers, working alongside South African Police Service (SAPS) members, have been searching homes and identifying properties as part of a broader effort to clamp down on gang activity and illegal weapons.

Residents in Westbury have complained for years about persistent gang-related violence and frequent shootings in the area.

One father told EWN that he fetched his daughter from school early out of fear for her safety, noting that several children in the community have been caught in recent shootings.

“In all fairness, I’m actually pleased that they have appeared; thank you to them for their service,” he said.

While some community members have welcomed the military presence, many say they want to see a longer-term security plan to help restore safety in the area.