Pretoria - KwaZulu-Natal Premier Senzo Mchunu has commended members of the SAPS for the swift arrest of suspects in connection with the murder of a couple at Empangeni A taxi rank.
Nhlanhla Shange and his wife Mabel were shot and killed in what is believed to be a hijacking at the Empangeni A taxi rank on Thursday night.
Speaking after visiting the family in Esikhawini on Saturday, Premier Mchunu said it was devastating to see the family in such a state, and that “no words can express our deepest sympathies to the family for the pain and irreparable loss of their parents”.
He assured the family that the provincial government will stand beside the family during this difficult period and more resources will be allocated to ensure that police are meticulous in their investigation in order to ensure successful conviction.
Premier Mchunu commended the police for moving swiftly in arresting the perpetrators of this gruesome act, as well as the community for working with the police, which led to the arrest of the perpetrators.
“I was informed that the suspects were found in possession of items stolen from the couple and two firearms were also recovered. I am confident that the justice system will discharge the punishment that will serve as a lesson to others, who have no respect for another human being.
“I have often stated that when there is a violent murder and stolen property, most people in the community know exactly who the first suspicious individuals in the area are. Therefore, every one of us should be playing a role in crime prevention by cooperating with law enforcement agencies,” the premier said.
The suspects are scheduled to appear in court on 5 August 2014. – SAnews.gov.za
