A Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officer was shot and killed while responding to a robbery in Vlakfontein on May 14.

Clr Sarah Wissler, chairperson of the Section 79 Public Safety Committee at the City of Johannesburg, condemned the killing of officer Matome Mokoena (33), who was attached to Region G Operations.

“It is with profound sorrow and deep outrage that I condemn the brutal and senseless killing of JMPD officer Matome Mokoena, who was fatally shot in the line of duty on Wednesday while responding to a robbery in Vlakfontein,” said Wissler.

Wissler said, “Officer Matome Mokoena from Region G Operations was in pursuit of a white Volkswagen Polo, believed to have been involved in the robbery. He and his colleague approached the vehicle when the suspects ambushed them. Mokoena was chased and fatally shot. His service firearm and patrol vehicle were stolen during the attack.”

Wissler described the incident as not merely an attack on an officer but “an attack on the safety of our city, the rule of law, and the values of public service.”

“We cannot and will not allow violent criminals to destabilise our communities or undermine the justice system. I stand in full solidarity with the JMPD Commissioner, Patrick Jaca, and all members of the public safety fraternity in calling for the swift apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for this heinous crime,” she said.

Wissler extended her heartfelt condolences to Mokoena’s family, friends, and colleagues.

“We mourn with you, and we honour his bravery and ultimate sacrifice. His legacy must inspire a renewed commitment to fighting crime and ensuring the safety of all residents across our city.

“May officer Matome Mokoena’s memory serve as a guiding light in our ongoing pursuit of a safer, more just Johannesburg,” said Wissler.

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