SAPS cannot lose war against criminals who attack, kill cops – Masemola
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola says the South African Police Service cannot afford to lose the war against criminals who attack and kill police officers.
Masemola made the remarks during a visit to the home of the late Sergeant Leka Maja in Mamelodi on Saturday.
It also comes after the killing of Free State detective Johannes du Rand (43) on Friday morning.
Du Rand was killed by armed suspects whilst tracing a hijacked truck along the N3 near Villiers.
At time of his death, Du Rand had been a cop for nearly three decades.
Meanwhile, in Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for two suspects after the killing of Maja on Thursday.
Maja died during the tracing of illegal firearms in Mamelodi.
“Three suspects were fatally wounded and four pistols as well as three rifles were seized," says national police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe.
“This is a war that has been called by criminals, we cannot come second. We cannot co-rule with criminals, communities have put their trust in us and we need to fight back to ensure the safety and security of our communities and police officers.
“We are going to respond accordingly until we win this fight against criminals. The families of these officers are looking up to us to ensure that those that are behind these killings and attacks face the full might of the law.”
The SAPS has set aside R25 million to ensure the safety and security of police officers on and off duty.
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