Public Safety MMC Councillor Dr Mgcini Tshwaku has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that he was kidnapped during an enforcement operation in Alexandra Township.
Tshwaku took to social media to explain that the incident occurred when municipal administrators and Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers, accompanied by the MMC, encountered resistance from aggressive security personnel at a premises suspected of operating as an illegal brothel and gambling site.
He said the security personnel attempted to obstruct the team’s inspection duties, leading to a brief escalation where they tried, but failed, to lock the doors.
JMPD officers promptly called for backup from specialised units, including the Tactical Response Unit (TRU) and K9 Unit.
Within minutes, the situation was de-escalated, a suspect was neutralised, and a firearm along with ammunition was confiscated. A thorough search of the premises followed.
“We are doing very well in public safety. We have strong firepower. No one messes with us because anyone with a gun who wants to shoot at the JMPD will be dealt with. There’s no such situation happening. We just had security guarding the brothel itself,” Tshwaku said.
He added: “The security guard was very rude and rough. He didn’t want to be arrested and resisted us entering the brothel to see what was really happening. We had to call for backup because he was being difficult and trying to lock the rooms. I was not alone inside; I was with Alex, who wrote the article. She can confirm it. I have pictures and videos that I will be posting. The JMPD was also inside, along with members of Kram, the city officials, and the regional director.”
“There was no kidnapping or anything of that sort. This misinformation and lie have been spread by the MMC. It’s completely false. In terms of crime, we’re making strong progress in the city of Johannesburg,” he emphasised.
Tshwaku concluded: “As in previous instances, media outlets and journalists are urged to verify facts thoroughly before publication and to refrain from reporting lies.”
Saturday Star