The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General Bheki Cele, joins the police officials of KwaZulu-Natal in mourning the brutal murder of yet another two police officials in that province, Captain Sydney Bongani Hlengwa and Constable Zamikhaya Patrick Hlangulela.
On Thursday, 19 May 2011 police officers from Creighton SAPS raided a property in order to carry out a search. The owner of the property, who was asked to produce a liquor licence opened fire on the police members fatally wounding Captain Hlengwa and Constable Hlangulela and inuring Sergeant Aron Siyabonga Gcaleka.
Subsequently, a 67 year old suspect has been arrested on charges of murder and attempted murder and a 9mm pistol in his possession has been seized.
“Just as we were celebrating successfully securing the Local Government Elections in KwaZulu-Natal, we were devastated to hear that we have lost another two members of our police family. The gunning down of three police officers, two fatally, who were performing their duties in ridding our communities of crime and criminals, was a senseless and cowardly act and is to be most strongly condemned”, said General Cele.
“This brings the numbers of police officials murdered in KZN in less than five months to 11, which is totally unacceptable”, added Cele.
The South African Police Service conveys its deepest sympathy and condolences to the families, colleagues and friends of our fallen colleagues. The National Commissioner will visit the area of Creighton later today to convey his condolences personally.
Media contact:Brigadier Sally de Beer
Cell: 082 779 8658
Tel: 012 400 6585
E-mail:mediacentre@saps.org.za
Source: South African Police Service
