Gauteng government condemns ‘sabotage’ of G20 signage and city infrastructure

The Gauteng Provincial Government has strongly condemned what it described as “malicious and coordinated” acts of vandalism targeting newly revamped infrastructure across Johannesburg ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.

According to the provincial government, several G20-branded signs near Nasrec were destroyed by alleged armed assailants, while streetlights and traffic signals along the R55 route were also damaged.

“These mischievous and cowardly acts of vandalism represent a direct assault on our nation and its standing in the world,” the provincial government said.

Premier Panyaza Lesufi warned that those responsible would face harsh consequences, saying the province viewed the incidents as a “deliberate campaign of sabotage” intended to undermine South Africa’s image ahead of the global gathering.

“This is not petty crime. We are aware that some roguish elements are mobilising to cause chaos, and we are working in full cooperation with all national security structures. We will identify, apprehend, and fully prosecute the perpetrators of this sabotage to the full extent of the law,” said Lesufi.

The provincial government said that those found guilty of destroying or stealing public infrastructure could face imprisonment of up to 30 years under the Criminal Matters Amendment Act of 2015, which protects essential infrastructure.

Lesufi said law enforcement agencies had been directed to intensify security operations and investigations to prevent further disruptions.

“The Gauteng province is ready, capable, and proud to host this landmark event. We will not allow the desperate actions of a few to jeopardise this critical national opportunity,” he said.