WITH many cops murdered in the line of duty daily, the South African Police Union (SAPU) held an awareness campaign against police killings in eSikhaleni on Sunday.
The peaceful protest was to spread a strong message against the crime wave, and to implore for divine intervention to end the ‘inhuman’ acts.
Members from all over KZN marched from the Bhambatha Hostel to Umfolozi TVET College sports ground, under the slogan ‘Protect our protectors’.
They declared the #Criminals must fall movement, and handed over a memorandum to the Provincial Police Commissioner Lt Gen Betty Mmamonnye Ngobeni.
Members requested the government to ensure there are clear programmes dealing with fighting police killings, and demanded that criminals involved in these murders receive higher sentences.
‘Today we condemn this act against our members who have become a target of criminals. We saying enough is enough, and the community must work together with us to ensure a safe society for all,’ said SAPU Deputy President Tumi Mogodiseng.
The police fraternity also had a moment of silence as a sign of respect to those who perished at the hands of criminals.
Grieving families of murdered cops included that of the late Warrant Officer Siza Nyandeni (59) of Nyoni SAPS, were part of the campaign.
Nyandeni and his partner died in hospital after they were shot during a prison break in February.
Commissioner Ngobeni supported the campaign, and comforted grieving families.
She also requested partnerships with the community in fighting the intensifying crime.
‘Criminals will have nowhere to hide if we work together. This has has been going on long enough, and it is time to bring criminals to justice, especially those who target officials,’ she said.
