The Gauteng provincial government has launched an e-Panic Button as part of a broader strategy to fight crime. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The e-Panic Button will allow users to instantly alert emergency services and law enforcement at the touch of a button, ensuring quick response in times of distress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The province said that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to leverage technology in crime prevention and ensure the safety of citizens. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since the pilot project launched in April 2023, it has seen 8,000 downloads, primarily from nurses and teachers. The aim is to distribute 100,000 physical buttons to the public. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Residents with smartphones will be able to download the app from the App Store and Google Play Store.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Safety is a shared responsibility. We need the community to be actively involved in these initiatives, to be the eyes and ears on the ground. The e-Panic Button is a crucial step forward, but its success depends on the community’s engagement and trust,” said MEC for Community Safety Faith Mazibuko. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The province said that the panic button received widespread support from residents during a Crime Imbizo in Sebokeng. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The e-Panic Button is set to be rolled out across the province with training sessions planned to ensure that residents know how to use it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n