The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has commended law enforcement on the swift work to apprehend a person of interest linked to the Reiger Park shooting, which claimed the lives of two police officers and two women.
On Friday, two officers were conducting patrols in the area when they heard gunshots and moved towards the source of the shots, and were subsequently shot and killed.
“The committee welcomes the apprehension of a person of interest for questioning and the successful recovery of firearms and ammunition that were taken from the two murdered police officers during the incident.
“This breakthrough demonstrates the dedication, professionalism and determination of the investigating teams to ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice,” the committee said in a statement.
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Two rifles belonging to the South African Police Service (SAPS) were also recovered.
“The recovery of the stolen firearms is particularly important, not only as evidence in the investigation, but also because every firearm recovered prevents the possibility of further violent crimes being committed against innocent members of the public.
“The committee extends its deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased. The brutal killing of the two police officers while serving and protecting communities is an attack on the rule of law and a reminder of the daily risks faced by law enforcement officers across Gauteng,” the statement read.
The committee noted that the Reiger Park community has raised concerns on, amongst others, the handling of serious criminal matters and allegations of bail being granted to individuals linked to violent crimes.
“The committee…calls on all role players within the criminal justice system, including prosecutors, investigators and the courts, to work collectively to ensure that justice is not only done but is seen to be done.
“Communities must have confidence that dangerous offenders will be effectively prosecuted and, where appropriate, denied opportunities to continue threatening public safety,” the statement continued.
The committee assured that it will seek to engage relevant criminal justice authorities “regarding concerns raised by residents about the handling of serious criminal cases affecting the Reiger Park community”.
“At the same time, the Committee reiterates that the tragic loss of life in Reiger Park reinforces the urgent need to intensify efforts to combat the proliferation of illegal firearms and violent crime. The circulation of illegal guns continues to fuel murders, armed robberies, gang activity and attacks on law enforcement officers.
“The committee remains committed to its Gun Free Gauteng Campaign by advancing interventions aimed at building safer communities, strengthening cooperation between law enforcement agencies and communities, recovering illegal firearms, and ensuring that the criminal justice system responds firmly and effectively to violent crime.
“The people of Gauteng deserve both effective policing and a criminal justice system that consistently protects communities, supports victims and holds perpetrators accountable,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
