The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa has strongly condemned the killing of AMCU North West regional leader Mawethu Joseph Steven and two brothers said to be members of NUM in separate incidents over the weekend.  The Minister stated that provincial police have already begun with an investigation and with the help of the public, they will ensure that those responsible are brought to book in due course.

"We condemn any senseless killing of any person and will do our best as law enforcements to ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and punished.  These tragic killings take place at a time when we are still observing and respecting proceedings of the Commission of Inquiry into the Marikana tragedy.  We therefore call upon all in society to uphold the law because as government we shall not tolerate any massacre or intimidation of any law abiding citizen."

The Minister further reiterated a call to locals to assist police in their investigation, by providing any possible leads that can result in the apprehension of the suspects.  "Those who committed these atrocious acts, surely live within the communities.  We therefore urge members of society to come forward with any information that can fast track the investigation and not to harbor the perpetrators.  It is only through this working together that we can ensure that we punish the murderers," added the Minister.

Minister Mthethwa stated that police personnel have been reinforced in the area since the past weekend and will continue to monitor the situation.  "We are monitoring the situation and urge the strikers to refrain from carrying any dangerous weapons, publicly, because that is against the law.  Whilst we have emphasized the point that to protest is a legitimate and a Constitutionally-enshrined democratic right, brandishing of dangerous weapons during such gatherings is illegal.

To this end, we want to appeal to all union leaders, to discourage their members not to embark in illegal protests and carrying of dangerous weapons."

For enquiries, please contact:

Zweli Mnisi, Spokesperson to the Minister of Police 082 045 4024
NATIONAL MEDIA CENTRE
Corporate Communication
South African Police Service
Office:+27 12-4006579 /6629 /6576
Fax: +27 12 - 400 7018