National Commissioner of the South African Police Service
25/06/2006
Inspector Frederick (Frikkie) van Heerden, West Rand Dog Unit Inspector
Nzama Victor Mathye, West Rand Dog Unit Sergeant Gert Schoeman, West Rand
Emergency Response Services, Constable Peter Francois Seaward, Johannesburg Dog
Unit
Top management of the South African Police Service, on behalf of all members
and employees, pays tribute to our four fallen colleagues, callously gunned
down in their prime on Sunday, 25 June 2006.
A group of members from the West Rand Flying Squad and Dog Unit heroically
chased down a large gang of heavily armed robbers in Jeppestown, Johannesburg.
In the course of an intensive shoot-out, during which the members vigorously
defended themselves, the four brave police officers were fatally wounded. We
extend our most heartfelt sympathy to their families, loved ones and
colleagues. The entire South African Police Service (SAPS) is grieving with
them and we will do all in our power to support them in their time of
sadness.
Eight members of the ruthless gang were killed in the exchange of gunshots
and another eleven were later arrested. All members on the scene, including the
four who paid with their lives and the two who were injured, displayed the
utmost courage and dedication to their duties. They were willing to forsake
their own lives to protect the community and tragically Inspector Frikkie van
Heerden (32 years of age), Inspector Nzama Mathye (49 years of age), Sergeant
Gert Schoeman (30 years of age) and Constable Peter Francois Seaward (31 years
of age) did just that.
We must honour their memories by taking the fight against crime forward with
renewed energy and vigour only by thwarting the evil of crime can we serve and
protect the people of this country and forge a better life for all.
Enquiries:
Captain Dennis Adriao
Tel: (012) 393 2135
Fax: (012) 393 2165
Cell: 082 828 5773
E-mail: adriaod@saps.org.za
Issued by: South African Police Service
25 June 2006
