Acting Minister of Police, Professor Firoz Cachalia, has extended his condolences to the families of police officers who were shot and killed on Friday, when escorting an awaiting trial prisoner.
Cachalia visited the families of Warrant Officer Vuyisile Sintwa (51) and Sergeant Simon Masenye (45) on Sunday.
The officers were escorting an awaiting trial prisoner, Jabulani Moyo, when they were ambushed in the Roodepoort town centre. Moyo remains at large, and a massive manhunt is underway.
During his visit to the families of the fallen officers, the Minister expressed his heartfelt condolences and assured the bereaved families that the South African Police Service (SAPS) will work to ensure that Moyo is located and held accountable for his actions.
The Minister also took the time to extend his sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni from Mpumalanga, who was killed on Saturday, while responding to a burglary incident in Schoemansdal near Komatipoort.
In his call for heightened vigilance, Cachalia said these senseless acts of violence against men and women in blue are an attack on the rule of law and the safety of all South Africans.
“We strongly condemn these heinous crimes, and we will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice. We call on all SAPS members to always remain alert and to make full and appropriate use of the tools of trade issued to them,” he said.
Police have offered a cash reward of R150 000 for anyone who has information on Moyo’s whereabouts, warning that he is dangerous and should not be approached. – SAnews.gov.za
