Government has joined President Cyril Ramaphosa in extending its deepest condolences to the families and communities affected by the tragic killing of women in and around Ekurhuleni.
President Ramaphosa has declared the murders a national crisis and directed that the investigation receives the highest level of attention from government and law enforcement agencies.
READ | Ekurhuleni murders are a priority - President Ramaphosa
A multidisciplinary specialised team has been mobilised to work around the clock to identify and apprehend those responsible for the killings in Ekurhuleni.
“As this work continues, it is important to recognise that building safer communities is a shared responsibility. Creating safer neighbourhoods where criminal activity cannot thrive requires a collaborative effort between law enforcement, individuals, local authorities, schools, business and civil society,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement on Thursday.
Government has urged communities to make use of established safety structures, including Community Police Forums (CPFs), neighbourhood watches and other community safety initiatives, while working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and local authorities.
Communities have also been encouraged to remain vigilant about the activities occurring around them and report suspicious behaviour to the police.
These include the peddling and use of illicit drugs, illegal firearms, gender-based violence and femicide, abuse of children and the elderly, vandalism, and other illegal activities that undermines the rule of law.
The GCIS has encouraged residents to know their neighbours and support vulnerable members of the community, particularly the elderly, women and children.
“If you see something, speak out. Do not look away. Every person can contribute to make neighbourhoods safe by reporting crime and supporting those that are at risk,” the GCIS said.
Government emphasised that communities could help prevent crime and protect one another by working together, remaining vigilant and supporting law enforcement efforts.
Government also urged anyone with information that may assist the investigation into the killings to report it directly to SAPS.
Government further warned members of the public against sharing unverified information about the incidents, saying this could compromise the investigation, or cause further distress to the affected families.
READ | Call to refrain from sharing false information about Ekuthuleni murders
Anyone with information about the killings, or those searching for a missing relative or friend in connection with the incidents, can contact Warrant Officer Elvis Manyike on 082 465 7249. – SAnews.gov.za
