Nearly 2000 people arrested during G20 Summit weekend in Johannesburg

Mapaballo Borotho

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi confirmed that nearly 1800 people were arrested during the G20 Summit weekend in Johannesburg.
The arrests included suspects linked to vandalism, serious crimes, and attempts to disrupt the summit.
Lesufi said the province’s recent infrastructure upgrades are part of long-term development plans, with the summit serving as a catalyst for faster implementation.

Nearly 2000 people were arrested during the G20 Leaders’ Summit weekend in Johannesburg. This was confirmed by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi on Tuesday, 25 November 2025.

Lesufi was briefing the media following the province’s successful hosting of the summit.

“Our law enforcement agencies, with their professional and visible presence, ensured a safe and secure environment for all delegates and citizens, upholding the highest standards of security and protocol,” said Lesufi.

“The SAPS arrested approximately 1,799 people between November 17th and 20th.”

The arrests included suspects wanted for vandalising infrastructure, as well as individuals involved in serious crimes such as theft, kidnapping, intimidation, and extortion.

Among these, about 1075 cases were for contact crimes, including assault, rape, murder, attempted murder, and house robberies.

Two members of Operation Dudula were also arrested for attempting to disrupt the leaders’ summit.

Lesufi reiterated that the renovation work in Gauteng’s infrastructure was not only about the G20 Leaders’ Summit but formed part of the province’s plans to boost and accelerate Gauteng’s 13 main priorities, which were outlined in February.

He, however, admitted that the summit marked a critical turning point, uniting all municipalities since the 2021 local government elections under a single provincial plan for execution.

“This is a reminder that the work that was done was not about the G20 Leaders’ Summit, but the meeting gave us a sense of urgency in implementing our resolutions.”