​Thembisa Shologu
The Gauteng Provincial Government is intensifying its efforts to combat crime, with the strategic deployment of military veterans as Gauteng Traffic Wardens (GTWs) set to make a significant impact. 
In April 2500 military veterans were recruited as part of the Nasi iSpani Mass Recruitment programme to bolster law enforcement across the province. This initiative aims to curb crime, corruption, lawlessness, and vandalism within communities, providing much-needed support to existing law enforcement agencies.
Speaking during a parade at the Dunnottar Military Base in Nigel, Premier Panyaza Lesufi said the military veterans will act as a force multiplier to assist the law enforcement agencies in Gauteng. This cohort will augment the work of law enforcement to reclaim the Joburg CBD.
"You have a huge task. You liberated this country, and I am sending you back to the second liberation to defend our people, restore order, and, most importantly, send a powerful signal that you have arrived and no one can stop you. We will reclaim what belongs to SAs. Be ready!" said Premier Lesufi.
Lesufi expressed his appreciation to the veterans for raising their hands, running the race, and committing to the course. 
He warned the wardens that the task ahead was not easy but an important one.  
"I am proud that you have chosen to be progressive, that you decided to be on the side of progress, to be developmental, to equip yourselves to the skills, and to be on the side of our people again. 
"I am proud that today, all of you are winners, but the task is massive and very important. We need to reclaim the Joburg CBD back to South Africans (SAs). It is a big task. 
"Your task is heavy, your task is difficult, but I have no reason to doubt your commitment because even when you were here, you went through pains and many difficulties, but I have no doubt that you are willing to carry out this particular task without being influenced by any other thing but for the love of our country and the love of our people," he said. 
Premier Lesufi advised the wardens to avoid the pitfalls of bribery and corruption and urged them to carry out their duties with integrity.
Major General Charles Buys, in his farewell to the veterans, offered words of encouragement, reminding them that the battle against crime is not easy. He called on them to approach their duties with principles and professionalism, emphasising the importance of mutual support among colleagues.
"The journey you travelled from the day you arrived has been many things and life-changing to most, and the passing out does not mark the end but the continuation of the progress in servitude of our beloved country and its citizens.
"Your resilience in this programme is commendable. May our children in the streets play safer, and our brothers and sisters feel safer in their homes. Before we bid you farewell, I wish you divine guidance and progress. The world of crime is not easy, but I have my full faith that you will make the nation proud and the communities you serve safe," said Buys.
Community Safety Eastern Corridor Director Jeff Xaba also expressed gratitude to the premier for prioritising crime reduction and ensuring the necessary resources are in place. He commended the traffic wardens for their commitment to this crucial mission. 
"To the trapremierrdens, thank you for raising your hands because you understood how important this task is in fighting crime.
"With the experience that you have already contributed in so many ways to where we are as a country, you then again raised your hands. Thank you for being so committed!" said Xaba.