Kagiso, Mogale City – African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) Councillor Lydia Lebesa has expressed her deepest outrage and sorrow following the brutal murder of a female police officer and a taxi owner outside the Kagiso Police Station on August 22, 2024. The two victims were sitting in a Ford Figo when they were gunned down in a brazen attack with a high-calibre rifle, shocking the Kagiso community.
The police officer, whose name has not been released to the public, was a dedicated member of the South African Police Service (SAPS). She was well-known in the area for her commitment to community safety and the fight against crime. The taxi owner, who was in the car with her, also fell victim to the cold-blooded attack. Both were killed instantly in a hail of bullets, right outside the police station, in what is being described as a carefully planned and targeted assassination.
In a heartfelt statement, Councillor Lebesa condemned the senseless violence and called for swift action to bring those responsible to justice.
“This is a shocking and despicable act that cannot be tolerated,” Lebesa said. “Our police officers, who are on the front lines protecting us, should not be targeted in this horrific manner. We stand in solidarity with the SAPS and the affected families in this dark time.”
She also expressed concern over the growing trend of violent crimes in the country, specifically targeting law enforcement officials. “The use of high-calibre weapons in this attack is alarming. It shows the level of lawlessness that has infiltrated our communities. We cannot allow criminals to continue terrorizing our streets with such impunity.”
Lebesa urged the authorities to ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted, and that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice. She also called for increased protection and support for police officers, who face growing threats in their line of duty.
“Our police officers put their lives on the line every day to protect us. It is unacceptable that they are now being targeted with such violence. We need to prioritize their safety, provide them with the necessary resources, and hold those responsible accountable,” she added.
The ACDP councillor also extended her condolences to the families of the victims, calling the loss “devastating” for both the Kagiso community and the SAPS. “We mourn with the families of the victims and offer them our prayers and support during this painful time.”
The SAPS has launched an investigation into the killings, with early reports suggesting the possibility of links to organized crime or ongoing taxi-related disputes. The use of a high-calibre rifle, in such a bold attack, has raised concerns about the increasing militarization of criminal elements within the country.
Lebesa called on community members to cooperate with law enforcement and come forward with any information that might assist in the investigation. “We must work together to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible for these heinous crimes are brought to book. Our communities deserve peace and security.”
This tragic incident has once again highlighted the challenges facing South Africa’s law enforcement and the urgent need for reform in addressing violent crime and the proliferation of illegal firearms in the country.
What the so-called killers have done is not killing but first degree murder. It is brutal. Jurisdiction should not be lenient when the criminals are apprehended. It should send a clear message to all criminals that crime doesn’t payl.