Issued by: Ministry for Safety and Security
STATEMENT TO THE MEDIA ISSUED BY THE MINISTER FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY, MR SYDNEY MUFAMADI IN CAPE TOWN ON WEDNESDAY 20 MARCH 1996
THE MURDER OF THREE POLICEMEN AT NDALENI NEAR RICHMOND ON 15 MARCH 1996.
The investigation into the reprehensible killing of three policemen at Ndaleni near Richmond is receiving the highest priority by the South African Police Service.
From police reports we have gained the impression that the people behind the attack are aiming at frustrating the police investigations into the murders and violence which have claimed so many lives in KwaZulu Natal over such a long time. The perpetrators of the murders also appear to target the Investigation Task Unit with the aim of preventing the Unit from succeeding with its investigations in the KwaZulu Natal midlands.
They will not succeed with their aim. I want to make it clear that no-go areas for the South African Police Service do not exist in South Africa and the Richmond area will not become one.
Everything will be done to restore law and order to the area. To this end I have had discussions with the Minister of Defence and we both agree that the South African National Defence Force and Public Order Police units of the South African Police Service will have to commence patrols in the greater Richmond area. I have directed the National Commissioner to ensure that these patrols commence as soon as possible.
The investigation Task Unit will continue with their investigations focused on the cases which they are presently investigating. An investigation team consisting of the murder and robbery squad and other role players are working 24 hours a day to apprehend the culprits. Breakthroughs have already been made and arrests can be expected shortly.
The general protection of the residents in the area will be extended to include the protection of police investigators. The co-operation from the public in the area is crucial in solving this case and I request witnesses to come forward. Steps will be taken to provide witness protection to anyone seeking such protection.
The three policemen who were killed were performing their duties as professional policemen in the interest of the safety and security of ordinary citizens. I condemn the murders in the strongest possible terms and extend my condolences to the families of the deceased.
CONTACT PERSON: MAXWELL MULAUDZI 082-373-2005