The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Riah Phiyega relays her condolences to the family of Warrant Officer (W/O) Lennox Phathumzi Latha who died of strangulation yesterday whilst on duty at Katlehong Police Station.
At about 19h30 in the evening, W/O Latha responded to a callout from the cells at the police station. He went through the first cell gate and when he opened the second one he was pounced on by inmates who throttled him to death. Two suspects who are Mozambique nationals have since escaped with the cell keys. Their alleged accomplices are still in police custody. The four are linked to a car hijacking that happened around Gauteng Province.
The next of kin of the late member has been informed and a process of providing the necessary support by SAPS’ Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) component is underway.
“It is with grief that I have been informed by the Gauteng Provincial Commissioner about the circumstances that led to the death of W/O Latha. Our deepest sympathies to his immediate family and work colleagues who will experience a trying time brought about by his demise,” General Phiyega has signalled.
General Phiyega calls on members to exercise extreme caution when visiting cells and stressed the importance of adhering to the orders governing the management of police cells.
Enquiries:
Brigadier Lindela L Mashigo
Cell: 082 778 4310
E-mail: mediacentre@saps.org.za
General Riah Phiyega offers commiseration following strangulation of a member
