The Police and Prisoners Civil Rights Union (Popcru) has condemned the recent attacks and killing of police officers in KwaZulu-Natal.
Spokesperson of Popcru, Richard Mamabolo, told The Witness that the union was concerned about the safety of police officers in the province. This comes after several SAPS members were attacked in separate incidents around KZN this week.
“We condemn such vile, continuous acts and wish to send our condolences to the families and colleagues of the officers who have lost their lives while wishing those injured speedy recovery,” Mamabolo said.
On Sunday, a police captain stationed at Msinga was shot and killed, and his colleague sustained serious injuries when they were ambushed in Ngome area, outside Greytown. Another police officer working at the Greytown police station was attacked and robbed on Sunday night.
On Tuesday another policeman was gunned during an armed robbery in Mid-Illovo, near Durban.
“It is sad that these members of the SAPS continue to be targets of criminal elements, and are being killed on a regular basis.
“Police are not safe anywhere. In fact, it has become a thankless job for many of our officers,” Mamabolo said.
He said as Popcru they urged SAPS members to always remain alert while carrying out their duties.
“But most importantly, have agreed that there is an urgent need for a policing Indaba to really consider measures in collectively dealing with the root causes of police killings.
“There is an urgent need to build capacity at station-level in ensuring more police are on the ground in fighting crime,” Mamabolo added.
