Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has sent condolences to the family and friends of the former Gauteng Police Commissioner Perumal Naidoo, who passed away last night after a long fight with cancer.
Naidoo, 61, was police chief for nine years before being replaced by Mzwandile Petros in 2010.
"Commissioner Naidoo played a pivotal role in reducing all levels of crime in Gauteng over the close to 10-year period that he led the SAPS as a Commissioner.
“The country will miss his dedicated leadership, his steadfastness and his service to the community. May his soul rest in peace,” said President Zuma.
Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane and Crime Line also said they were saddened by the passing of Naidoo.
Crime Line described Naidoo as a committed police officer.
"Commissioner Naidoo supported Crime Line from day one. He supported us when we launched in 2007, and constantly promoted the service during his tenure as provincial commissioner,” said Head of Crime Line, Yusuf Abramjee.
“He was a committed police officer that put the needs of the community above everything else. We will miss him and we thank him for his service to the people of Gauteng and indeed the rest of South Africa.”
His career with the South African Police Service (SAPS) spans over 35 years, with previous positions including station commander of the Daveyton and Chatsworth police stations. – SAnews.gov.za
