5 days ago
Police union says killings of cops points to crisis
SA African police union national spokesperson Lesiba Thobakgale said there was 'no political will' to declare police killings as treason.
"Police officers are representing the state, and the state must take measures to protect the protectors, as an attack on police or law enforcement officers is an attack on the State. The continuous attack on police officers means the State is under attack,' Thobakgale said.
'There can never be a decrease on police killings that can be appreciated. We [would] rather celebrate a zero number on police and law enforcement officers being reported every quarter."
According to Mamabolo, the rate of attacks on officers remained unacceptably high.
'While there have been moments where crime statistics have reflected marginal decreases in certain categories, the sustained targeting of law enforcement shows that more decisive and coordinated action is needed. This requires not only better resourcing of the police — including training, equipment, and staffing — but also stronger community–police partnerships to rebuild trust, gather intelligence and prevent attacks before they happen.
On Saturday, national police commissioner Fannie Masemola visited the families of the slain Gauteng officers.
'Indeed, we cannot remain silent, and it cannot be business as usual when criminals have clearly declared war on the authority of the state.
'I am making this call again to all police officers in the country: do not die with the tools and resources that we have given you. The men and women in blue must act appropriately when circumstances allow them to act. Remember to always use force that is proportional to the threat.
'I plead with you, do not let your guard down, always be a step ahead of these criminals to ensure the safety and security of the people of this country," Masemola said.
On Sunday he visited Mtshweni's family in Mpumalanga. He also said one person has since been arrested in connection with the officer's murder.
The acting minister of police, Prof Firoz Cachalia, also visited the families of the two detectives in Roodepoort on Sunday.
He said: 'These senseless acts of violence against our men and women in blue are an attack on the rule of law and on 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 remain alert at all times and to make full and appropriate use of the tools of trade issued to them.'
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