Police officer killed on N2 sent shockwaves throughout South Coast
Constable Jairus Joshua Govender, who was affectionately known as 'JJ' by a number of South Coasters was killed while changing a tyre on the N2 near the Scottburgh Mall recently.
The death of a young Constable Jairus Joshua Govender, stationed at the Port Shepstone SAPS has sent shockwaves throughout the South Coast.
Govender, who was affectionately known as ‘JJ’ by a number of South Coasters was killed while changing a tyre on the N2 near the Scottburgh Mall recently.
According to sources, Govender was off-duty and was travelling with his girlfriend to Durban when the incident happened.
His death is being investigated by Hawks members from Port Shepstone Serious Organised Crime Investigation.
Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Simphiwe Mhlongo said they are investigating a case of murder.
“It is alleged that a 23-year-old police member was fatally shot while he was trying to change a tyre along the road. Two cellphones were taken during the incident. No arrest has been made at this stage,” said Mhlongo.
Speaking to Fever, Govender’s brother, Charlton van der Byl described ‘JJ’ as a person who always made time for everyone whether it was for friends or family.
He said Govender was a bubbly person who lit up the room with his smile.
He added that he would go out of his way to assist anyone even if they were strangers.
“He had a soft heart for children and they adored him to bits. He also loved his work, he always came back after work explaining all the cases that they attended. He was very competitive and always strived to be the best. His main goal was to become a high-ranked official at SAPS and wanted his stepdad to salute him after he passed his rank,” said van der Byl, adding that the bond Govender shared with his nieces and nephews was immeasurable.
Govender’s sister Chadei Peters told Fever that she could rely on JJ at any given time.
“He supported me emotionally while my husband was abroad. He gave my kids all his attention. He attended all special occasions making each moment special. My kids adored their uncle Joshua. They used to call him uncle,” said Peters.
Meanwhile, Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) spokesperson Richard Mamabolo said they are concerned over the sporadic killings of police officers across the country, saying that this has continued unabated.
“Almost on a weekly basis, we learn of yet other losses, bringing the number of officers killed since January to 56 thus far. In the short term, we urge officers to remain vigilant and be wary of their surroundings, and when their lives are threatened, they need to act decisively to preserve their lives,” said Mamabolo.
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