Pretoria – The murder of Warrant Officer Colbern Mashego, a Hawks member who was gunned down on Sunday, has been strongly condemned by the National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Lieutenant General Mthandazo Ntlemeza.
According to the Hawks, Warrant Officer Mashego was brutally murdered after he was following up on information of a drug deal allegedly perpetrated by police officers based at OR Tambo International Airport.
The circumstances around the incident are being investigated by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).
Ntlemeza said Mashego lost his life due to his occupation and this was indicative of the risks and sacrifices law enforcement officers face while serving and protecting the nation.
He said it was particularly sad for his family and associates to lose him as the festive season approaches.
Ntlemeza expressed his deepest condolences to Mashego’s widow and children, his community, and his colleagues in the Hawks.
“The Hawks will not be deterred by this attack on its membership and will maintain their increased presence throughout the season and beyond. This incident is a sober reminder that notwithstanding encouraging reductions in crime, there is still much to be done to achieve a safe and secure environment,” he said.
He will request an urgent meeting with the acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane to look into the deployments at OR Tambo Airport and other ports of entry in the Republic.
“There is a serious need for a serious shake up at all this ports of entries and the deliberations will include all other law enforcement agencies in those locations,” Ntlemeza said.
As the SAPS family mourns the loss of another member under tragic circumstances, he implored officers to remain resolute in the performance of their duties, be vigilant, take swift decisive action to protect themselves, family, colleagues and members of the public within the law. – SAnews.gov.za
