Shongwe fumes over withdrawal of attempted murder case allegedly perpetrated by traffic officer

Media Statement
06 September 2011

Mpumalanga Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Vusi Shongwe is fuming after a man withdrew an attempted murder case committed against him allegedly by a traffic officer over the weekend.

It is alleged that a traffic officer who is employed by the department had an argument with another man at the tavern in Driekopies and ended up shooting him four times with a state-owned firearm leaving the victim injured. The traffic officer handed himself at the Schoemansdal Police Station and was charged with attempted murder.

Prior to the MEC’s planned visit to the family of the victim to show remorse, the MEC was told the victim had withdrawn the case saying the families had spoken and had found common understanding.

“We are always educating our people about not withdrawing cases; this is foolish, how can a person be shot four times and yet withdraws such a case?

“We do not have time for this senseless behavior, I want the traffic officer charged departmentally and be punished if found guilty,” said Shongwe.

He said the traffic officer was irresponsible as there was no reason for him to misuses the state’s firearm at the tavern.

“This is what we always say that non-passionate officers should leave the public service, because they create more problems for us as government.

“We wanted to visit the victim’s family thinking they deserve remorse from government, how could they decide to withdraw such a case, don’t they see anything wrong? It is about time our people appreciate the rule of law, this is unacceptable and my department will make sure the officer is subjected to a disciplinary action,” said Shongwe.

Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Safety, Security and Liaison

Enquiries: Joseph Mabuza
Contacts: (013) 766 4055
082 678 1450