JMPD condemns attacks on officers after traffic warden killed
The department extended its condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of Reagan Joseph and Kwanele Buthelezi, while wishing the injured officer and child a speedy recovery.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has expressed outrage and concern following a series of violent attacks on its officers, traffic wardens and security personnel in Johannesburg.
The latest incident occurred on Thursday, 1 October, when JMPD Traffic Warden Reagan Joseph was shot and killed while sitting inside his private vehicle, a white Volkswagen Citi Golf, in Turffontein.
According to the JMPD, two children were inside the vehicle during the shooting. One child sustained a gunshot wound to the head, while the condition of the second child is still being assessed. Warden Joseph was declared dead at the scene. Emergency services and law enforcement responded to the incident and an investigation is underway.
The department said the attack is the third incident involving JMPD personnel within a week. All three officials were off duty when the attacks took place.
On Saturday, 26 September, 34-year-old JMPD Security Officer Kwanele Buthelezi was abducted during a carjacking in Lenasia South. His body was later found in Finetown, Grasmere.
The following day, Sunday, 27 September, another JMPD officer was hijacked and shot in Finetown, Grasmere. He remains in hospital receiving medical treatment.
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla condemned the attacks, saying they were a direct assault on law enforcement and public safety.
“The JMPD strongly condemns these senseless acts of violence against dedicated personnel who serve and protect the residents of Johannesburg. Attacks on law enforcement officers, traffic wardens, and security staff represent a direct assault on the rule of law and community safety,” said Fihla.
The department extended its condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of Reagan Joseph and Kwanele Buthelezi, while wishing the injured officer and child a speedy recovery.
JMPD has appealed to members of the public with information about the incidents to come forward. The department said it is working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to identify and arrest those responsible.
“We urgently appeal to anyone with information regarding these crimes to come forward. The JMPD, working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS), will spare no effort in ensuring that all perpetrators are apprehended and face the full might of the law,” Fihla said.
