Death of Top Cops Shocks MEC Masango

Media Release
02 December 2008

Mpumalanga Safety and Security MEC, Mr Siphosezwe Masango has expressed a profound sense of shock over a shooting incident at Mhala Police Station involving the station commissioner and a branch commander for detective services.

The shooting incident, which took place today, claimed the lives of a Station Commissioner, Senior Superintendent Khazamula Baloyi and Branch Commander, Superintendent Boy Dlamini. Baloyi died at the scene while Dlamini died later while being rushed to Tintswalo Hospital.

The motive for the shooting is not known. Investigations are underway.

Masango is deeply saddened by the incident as it would have a negative impact on the good work the police are doing to address violent crime in the province.

“Police are expected at all times to be guardians of peace, safety and security. They are the ones who are supposed to protect us with these guns. They must assist government in ensuring that the target of reducing contact crimes with 7-10% is achieved,” said Masango.

“Communities cannot feel safe when police are not safe from each other, this would undermine our efforts to mobilise communities to assist in the fight against crime. The confidence that the majority of our people are now showing in our government to deal decisively with crime would be severely undermined by incidents like this,” said Masango.

Masango has called for calm at the station while this incident is being investigated.

Masango has appealed to the police to use facilities available within SAPS to address stress related problems as failure to do so, could be lethal.

Meanwhile, the MEC sends condolences to bereaved families, friends and colleagues of the deceased.

Issued by the Department of Safety and Security: Mpumalanga Government

For more information, contact Joseph Mabuza on (013) 766-4055 or 082 678 1450