Shock and concern over killing of police official in the line of duty

LIMPOPO provincial commissioner, Lt Genl Fannie Masemola has expressed his shock at and deep concern over the killing of Lt Yezindaba Meshack Shikati (54) from the Ritavi SAPS, who was killed in the line of duty at Ritavi in Tzaneen on Sunday.

Masemola said Shikati was killed when he and Const Carrol Machaba responded to a complaint at Mabuza Tavern at Patanage village in Ritavi.

“While investigating the complaint, they were ambushed by two unknown men. It is alleged that the two suspects emerged from the nearby bushes, one carrying a rifle and the other a handgun. They started shooting indiscriminately at the two officers, killing Shikati instantly. Machaba escaped unhurt.

“The two gunmen then took the officers’ official handguns and fled the scene,” said Masemola.

“It is with shock and sadness that we learned that one of our dedicated members was shot and killed. I condemn this heinous act in the strongest way. Any attack and killing of our police officers will not be tolerated, and I have already formulated a task team with the Hawks to apprehend these cold blooded killers and ensure they face the full might of the law. No stone will be left unturned in our efforts to establish who was involved and bring them to book.”

Masemola said the killing of police officers was a serious concern not only for the SAPS management, but for the community.

He urged the community to be vigilant and provide the police with any information that might lead to the arrest of these criminals.

“The SAPS will not be deterred by this terrible act in their quest to ensure all people in the province feel safe. As a result, the SAPS has intensified the search for the perpetrators and appeals to whoever has any information on this incident to immediately inform Col Mabotja at 071 351 7198 or their nearest police station or call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Callers can remain anonymous. Senior members from the provincial office and the Tzaneen cluster visited the bereaved family to offer their condolences and also visited Const Machaba, who is recovering from the shock at home.”

Limpopo police spokesperson, Brig Hangwani Mulaudzi said Machaba would receive counselling.