The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa has condemned the latest attack on police officers in the Phillipi, Western Cape last night.
Last night at approximately 22h00 two police constables were fatally wounded and one serious injured during a search operation of a residence in Siqala informal settlement in Philippi. Members attached to Operation Combat reacted on intelligence and searched a residence for suspects wanted for recent armed robberies in the Philippi area.
Upon entering the dwelling the suspects opened fire at police officers. During a shoot out with the robbers, one suspect was wounded and arrested and his 9mm firearm confiscated. Provincial police have reason to believe that more suspects were involved, but managed to evade arrest. The wounded police officer is being treated in hospital and is reportedly in a stable condition. The suspect is also being treated in hospital under police guard.
“It is evident that the criminals in the Western Cape are feeling the heat, hence these cowardly acts in the form of attacks on our officers. Almost on a daily basis our members face dangerous and vicious criminals, who will not hesitate to kill our officers or even law-abiding citizens. We reiterate that the attacks and killing of officers is a direct threat to our hard-won Constitutional democracy; a threat that should not be taken lightly by society.”
“We call upon all law-abiding citizens in the Western Cape to help us find the perpetrators of such crimes. We must, as a nation endeavour to protect our police officers against vicious criminals,” added the Minister.
For enquiries, please contact:
Zweli Mnisi
Spokesperson to the Minister of Police
Cell: 082 045 4024
