Port Elizabeth - Police in the Eastern Cape were on Wednesday mourning the loss of a member who was shot dead while responding to a business burglary in Libode late on Tuesday night.
Warrant Officer Mlungiseleli Dukuza,55, who was stationed in Libode as a Relief Commander, was shot and killed, and a colleague, Constable Mluleki Madolo, wounded, when robbers opened fire .
Provincial police said SAPS says that Warrant Officer Dukuza, together with three other members responded to a business burglary in progress, at around 10pm on Tuesday, after they were alerted by security guards
“Upon arrival the members were shot by the suspects, and Warrant Officer Dukuza was shot in the upper body and later succumbed to his injury in hospital,” police said. Madolo, 40, was wounded and was in a stable condition in hospital.
“Our hearts go out to his loved ones and close colleagues during this difficult time. SAPS will provide all the support possible to the bereaved family, and we wish Const Madolo who was with him a speedy recovery and strength as he recuperates in hospital,” Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Celiwe Binta said.
“Although every police official knows that their duties contain a great element of danger, the calling to protect and to serve is so great, that the danger seems insignificant. It can never be right to steal a policeman or policewoman away from their loved ones. It can never be right to gun down a man or woman in blue or any other person. We will however, not be deterred in our determination to fight crime. We request communities to work with us, in sharing information about crime and the whereabouts of criminals involved,” Binta added.
Police were continuing with investigations and appealed to anyone who can assist with the information that can lead to the arrest, prosecution and conviction of the suspects, to contact Major Ngxola on 082 300 2869 or Crime Line on 08600 10 111.
African News Agency