Tribute paid to slain officer on Chris Hani Road
Law enforcement officers, emergency services and members of neighbourhood watches and community policing forums paid tribute to the armed response officer who was shot after walking into a robbery in progress, unknown to him.
THE phrases used to describe slain armed response officer Sivuyile Madikizela were ‘committed to his job, a great father and partner and a person who put others first.’
Madikizela, who lived in Springfield, was shot on Chris Hani Road on Friday, when he entered a store to make a purchase, and unbeknown to him, there was a robbery in progress.
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He sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene, despite paramedics’ attempts to save his life.
His aunt, Claudia Madikizela, told Northglen News that her nephew had a heart of gold, always ready to help anyone in need.
“I share a special bond with my nieces and nephews, and Sivuyile was no different. He was a good man, kind-hearted and giving. On Saturday (November 9), we planned to visit his fiancée’s homestead for Umnquzo – a traditional celebration – but instead, we had to bury Sivuyile. He was so excited about the event. He called me a day before he died to touch base with me and told me he couldn’t wait,” said Claudia.
She added that he was also excited about welcoming a new addition to his family as his fiancée, Asiphe, is in the last trimester of her pregnancy. He also has an 11-year-old daughter, Ntando.
“They both are distraught by Sivuyile’s death. When the news came, we were shocked beyond words. It was so hard to believe. It’s tough on Asiphe as she is far along in her pregnancy. His daughter is equally distraught, and they miss him very much,” said Claudia.
Madikizela was very passionate about his job and had worked in the security industry for five years. He joined Marshall Security a month ago, a company he always wanted to work for.
“He was so excited about working at Marshall Security. He loved protecting people. It’s a trait he was born with. He loved people and was committed to his job,” she said.
Claudia added that justice may never be found for Sivuyile, but she prays that God forgives the people who robbed her nephew of his life.
“May his soul rest in peace,” she said.
On Thursday (November 7), Marshall Security held a guard of honour and moment of silence for Madikizela from the Virginia Sports Ground to Chris Hani Road.
Greenwood Park SAPS, neighbourhood watches, Greenwood Park CPF, Durban North SAPS, Netcare911, Durban North CPF and other dignitaries joined in. A candle was lit and flowers were laid at the spot where the armed response officer took his last breath.
Tyron Powell of Marshall Security said the loss of Madikizela has left a huge void in the team.
“He was so passionate about his new role and was eager to join the Marshall family. He was enthusiastic about his work. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues. We are committed to finding justice for Officer Madikizela and will cooperate with Greenwood SAPS during their investigation,” said Powell.
Following the ceremony, Marshall Security posted on Facebook: “Officer Madikizela served with dedication, bravery and a spirit of true community protection. To him, we owe a debt of gratitude that we can never fully repay, but we can honour his legacy by continuing to serve with the same courage and commitment he displayed every day. Thank you, Officer Sivuyile Madikizela, for your unwavering service. You will always be remembered as part of the Marshall Security family.”
Greenwood Park SAPS is investigating a case of business robbery and murder.
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