The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa accompanied by the National Police Commissioner, General Bheki Cele today paid homage to the seven South African Police Service (SAPS) officers who lost their lives following a helicopter crash in Witbank, Mpumalanga this morning.
Both the Minister Mthethwa and General Cele visited the accident scene where the wreckage of the helicopter and the officers’ bodies were discovered. At about 5 am this morning an alarm went off at Jabulani bakery in Witbank. When police arrived at the scene, seven suspects who were robbing the bakery started opening fire on police. Two helicopters, carrying members of the SAPS National Intervention Unit were then deployed to the incident scene. Eventually all seven suspects were arrested.
At this stage, speculation is that the huge mist within the vicinity of the area might have led to the cause of this accident. Upon crashing, the helicopter caught fire all seven members were burnt to death. Their names of the deceased will not be released before their next of kin have been officially informed. Police investigations are still ongoing.
Minister Mthethwa says he is deeply saddened by this unfortunate accident. “As a police family, we feel deeply robbed of dedicated and committed police officers. These members lost their lives doing what they did best, that is, safeguarding our society against vicious and heartless criminals. We shall forever remember their relentless dedication and never forget their invaluable contribution to the fight against crime. We express our sincerest condolences to their families, colleagues, friends and relatives.”
General Cele also echoed his condolences to the deceased's families as well. “My heartfelt condolences go to the families of these fallen members. It is indeed a tragic and a stomach-turning accident. It is an unfortunate situation but our members died for a good cause, ours is to carry the baton forward and win the war declared by criminals.”
Enquiries:
Zweli Mnisi
Cell: 082 045 4024
Major General Nonkululeko Mbatha
Cell: 083 645 6252
