PRESIDENCY MOURNS KILLING OF EASTERN CAPE COMMUNITY PATROLLERS

President Cyril Ramaphosa is saddened by the killing of six community patrollers in Tina Falls/Godini near Qumbu in the Eastern Cape late on Sunday night, 06 October 2024. The patrollers were reportedly preparing for duty at their base at Lugongozo Senior Secondary School when attackers struck with an assortment of firearms. Six patrollers lost their lives while four were injured.

President Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes the survivors a speedy recovery. President Ramaphosa said:

“Our thoughts are with the families of these community members who died in the course of playing their part to keep their area safe. Our thoughts are with the families of these community members who died in the course of playing their part to keep their area safe.

“Following so soon after an equally tragic shooting at Lusikisiki, this new incident saddens and outrages us. However, it should also add to our resolve to stop criminals from terrorising communities in the mistaken belief that they’re untouchable. They will be brought to justice alongside anyone who harbours such criminals and does not report information to the authorities.

“Government will continue to work with communities to ensure our homes, neighbourhoods and public spaces are safe and that criminals know they will pay for their deeds.”

The President welcomes the intensive police investigation into the Tina Falls/Godini incident which the South African Police Service is confident has produced a positive lead. On Wednesday 9 October 2024, a man appeared in Qumbu Magistrate’s Court. Police have stated that: at this stage, the accused’s identity is being withheld due to the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation. The accused faces charges that include six counts of murder and four counts of attempted murder. Currently, the accused has been remanded to police custody.

Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene said that the SAPS maintained concerns that those who are assisting the police are being targeted and attacked.

The Eastern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli, stated that the motive of the shootings is unclear at this time. The victims remain in hospital as they undergo their recovery.

The case will be resume on October 16, 2024, for bail consideration.