Traffic came to a halt in central Johannesburg as hundreds of police officers and public prosecutors marched towards Beyers Naude square on Wednesday morning.

Pedestrians and shop owners watched the marchers, who sang and danced to revolutionary songs, accompanied by the Mzimhlophe Brass Band, while the city's Metro police officers led the way.

The crowd was seen carrying banners reading: "Saps Johannesburg cluster pledge support to women and children".

Another read: "Gauteng Saps women's network says no to domestic violence".

Metro police spokesperson Inspector Edna Mamonyane and the police's Captain John Maluleke estimated that close to 2000 law enforcement officers were taking part in the march, in support of the 16 Days of activism against violence on women and children.

Johannesburg cluster commander Simon Mpembe and other senior officials were expected to speak to the crowd at Beyers Naude square.

Also taking part were National Prosecuting Authority staff and members of the Community Policing Forum.

Sapa