The South African Police Service (SAPS) National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has commended the Free State police for their swift response in arresting two suspects connected to the murder of Warrant Officer Johannes Du Rand. The detective commander was killed in the line of duty at the Villiers Police Station on 09 June 2023.
Arrest Made Within 24 Hours
The suspects were apprehended within 24 hours of the crime and were allegedly part of a gang that hijacked a truck on the N3 near Villiers. Du Rand, who had 29 years of service, located the hijacked truck but lost his life in a hail of bullets from the armed suspects. General Masemola paid a visit to Du Rand’s family to show his support.
Search Continues for Suspects in Gauteng
Meanwhile, in Gauteng, the search continues for two suspects involved in the killing of Sergeant Leka Maja during an operation to trace illegal firearms in Mamelodi. Three suspects were fatally wounded during the operation, and four pistols and three rifles were confiscated. Sergeant Maja, who had 14 years of service, was part of the Tactical Operations Management Section within the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI).
Strong Resolve to Fight Criminals Targeting Police Officers
General Masemola, accompanied by the National Head of the DPCI, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, visited Sergeant Maja’s family to express his condolences. The commissioner expressed a strong resolve to fight criminals targeting police officers, stating that “This is a war that has been called by criminals, we cannot come second.”
Urging Police to Respond Aggressively Against Criminals
General Masemola emphasized the police’s responsibility to maintain safety and security in the communities they serve. He called on the police to respond aggressively against criminals until they succeed in the fight against crime. The families of the fallen officers and the communities they served rely on the police to ensure that the perpetrators face justice.
Allocating Funds for Police Safety Strategy
To address the safety of police officers, the SAPS has allocated R25 million to enhance the security of all police service points for the current financial year. The organization is pursuing its Police Safety Strategy, an initiative designed to safeguard officers both on and off duty.
Unwavering Commitment to Fighting Crime
As the South African police force continues its mission to clamp down on crime, General Masemola’s unwavering commitment to the cause is evident. The swift apprehension of suspects in the Villiers case showcases the police’s dedication to protecting their communities and avenging their fallen comrades. The SAPS, under General Masemola’s leadership, remains determined to bring criminals to justice.
