Police killings should be 'national priority'

Close to 60 police officers have so far been killed in the 2015/16 financial year and stakeholders believe the matter needs urgent attention.

On Wednesday policing experts along with organised labour and senior police officials will participate in a seminar in parliament to address the scourge.

Chairperson of the police committee in parliament Francois Beukman said the committee believes the matter should be considered a "national priority."

"We cannot allow a situation that those who must protect society become mere victims of criminals," said Beukman.

Beukman said Wednesday's discussion needs to focus on three issues. Firstly, the committee wants the 'Back to Basics' approach to be promoted in the meeting. He said they also want the use of technology and the involvement of communities in policing to be promoted.

Another bloodied badge

The Hawks are investigating the alleged murder of another police officer who's body was found next to the Kaizer Sebothelo stadium in Botshabelo, Free State on Sunday.

The constable had a stab wound to the neck and his service pistol and cellphone were missing.

The provincial police commissioner Lt-Gen Thabethe Mpembe condemned the killing and said the 36-year-old is the third victim from the detective unit over the past week.

Police in Limpopo are also still investigating the murder of a detective who was killed by community members in Jane Furse in January.

During his State of the Nation Address President Jacob Zuma condemned the killing of police officers and urged them to defend themselves within the confines of the law.

On Wednesday the Committee will also evaluate measures put forward during engagements with police officials in 2015.