National Police Commissioner raises alarm over child gang recruitment following Westbury shooting

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has expressed deep concern over gangs recruiting children as young as 13.

Masemola's remarks follow a tragic incident in Westbury where two teenagers were killed and five others wounded in a suspected gang-related shooting.

“What is quite disturbing is the involvement of children in gang-related activities,” he said. “We’ve observed in several parts of the country that young boys and girls, some as young as 13 to 17, are being used as runners by older gang leaders. They’re being recruited early to do the dirty work for these gangs.”

Masemola explained that the justice system faces challenges in dealing with such cases since many of the perpetrators are minors. “Often, cases are withdrawn because they are underage. They are referred to diversion programmes for counselling and community service, which makes it difficult for police to curb the cycle of gang recruitment,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of parental involvement, saying the fight against gangsterism cannot be won by police alone. “All these children are of school-going age. They should be in classrooms, not on the streets. Parents and guardians must step up, monitor their children, and instill discipline at home.”

Preliminary investigations revealed that the two deceased victims were 17 and 19 years old, while the youngest survivor was just 13. Police are also questioning the homeowner, who is reportedly the mother of one of the boys, about how such gatherings were allowed to take place.

Masemola condemned the exposure of young children to harmful behaviour, including gambling and smoking, saying the family unit remains the first line of defence.

Westbury is among eight Gauteng communities with an active Anti-Gang Unit presence, including Eldorado Park, Toekomsrus, Langlaagte, Reiger Park, and Nigel. Masemola said police are increasing patrols and visibility to deter criminal activity but expressed frustration that officers are sometimes attacked by community members while arresting suspects.

“From January to date, 19 gang members have been arrested in Westbury alone for crimes including possession of illegal firearms, drugs, and gang-related murders. Eleven others have already been convicted,” he confirmed.

Masemola praised the ongoing coordination between the Anti-Gang Unit and provincial leadership, noting weekly meetings and plans to strengthen operations. “We’re continuously enhancing our strategies to adapt to changing crime patterns,” he said. “But this battle will only be won if communities and parents work with us. I repeat, parents must play their part in stopping gang-related activities.”

Saturday Star