Community patrollers in Mogoba, Daveyton, Ekurhuleni, had a narrow escape when they came under fire from a group of armed thugs in the early hours of 12 February. Despite the criminals being armed with guns, the patrollers, who only had torches for protection, were forced to take cover in nearby yards to avoid being shot. The thugs, numbering around 17, continued firing as the patrollers called for police backup.
When the police arrived on the scene, the criminals fled, abandoning their stolen goods. Thankfully, no patrollers were harmed, though the terrifying encounter has highlighted the dangers faced by community volunteers who are not permitted to carry weapons while on duty. One patroller expressed relief, saying, “Torches will never save us from thugs. We are relieved that none of us were harmed.”
The patrollers, who patrol the area to combat increasing crime, expressed concern over the presence of illegal firearms in their community. “People get shot and killed in Mogoba, and yet the police haven’t made arrests,” one patroller noted, referencing a recent shooting where three people were randomly attacked. The lack of proper weaponry leaves the patrollers vulnerable, raising questions about their safety during dangerous encounters.
Putfontein police spokesman Sergeant Rider Ubisi confirmed that the stolen goods were recovered and logged as evidence. He reiterated that patrollers are not allowed to carry weapons but can call the police for backup in dangerous situations. Despite these restrictions, the patrollers remain committed to their roles, despite the risks they face daily.
