Senseless killing of Joburg cop condemned
Officials have called for swift justice as the city reels from yet another attack on law enforcement.
The City of Johannesburg strongly condemns the fatal shooting of JMPD officer Matome Mokoena (33), who was killed in the line of duty on May 14 while responding to a robbery in Vlakfontein.
In a statement, the chairperson of the Public Safety Committee, Clr Sarah Wissler, expressed outrage over the incident and called for the swift prosecution of those responsible.
“Mokoena demonstrated exceptional courage as he and his colleague pursued a white Volkswagen Polo suspected of being involved in a robbery,” Wissler said.
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“In selfless service, they approached the vehicle to protect the community. Tragically, Mokoena was ambushed, chased, and fatally shot by the suspects.
During the attack, his service firearm and patrol vehicle were stolen.”
Wissler emphasised that the murder was more than just an attack on one officer but on the city and its people at large.
“We cannot and will not allow violent criminals to destabilise our communities or undermine the justice system. I stand in full solidarity with JMPD Commissioner Patrick Jaca and all members of the public safety fraternity in calling for the urgent apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for this heinous crime.
“To officer Mokoena’s family, friends, and colleagues, I extend my condolences. We mourn with you, and we honour his bravery and ultimate sacrifice,” she said.
“His legacy must inspire a renewed commitment to fighting crime and ensuring the safety of all residents across our city. May his memory serve as a guiding light in our ongoing pursuit of a safer, more just Johannesburg.”
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The tragic loss of Mokoena is part of a worrying pattern of violence against law enforcement in the region.
Earlier this year, in the City of Ekurhuleni, traffic warden Lawrence Ngudle was murdered on January 29 in Thembisa. Just over a week later, on February 7, Banele Skosana was tragically shot and killed in Kwa-Thema.
