The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa today offered condolences to the family of the late Johannesburg Central Cluster Commander, Major General Tirhani Maswanganyi, whose body was found in the early hours of this morning, near Hammanskraal, North of Pretoria.

“We are saddened by this tragic loss of a senior cop who dedicated his life to serve the vulnerable and the weak in society. Today, following this loss the South African Police Service is poorer, the Gauteng provincial team is poorer, the people of Johannesburg are poorer, the people of Gauteng and of the entire South Africa are poorer. We have all been robbed of a true patriot, a dedicated officer who has contributed in the reconstruction and development of our country,” he stated.

The Minister stated that by taking a tough stance against crime and all its evils, this can be the best memory South Africans can afford General Maswanganyi and many other police officers who have tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. “We have emphasized the point before that policing remains a very difficult and challenging duty. Almost on a daily basis our members face dangerous and vicious criminals, who will not hesitate to kill them or even injure and kill innocent law-abiding citizens. One police life lost is one too many. We are saying enough.” Minister Mthethwa further welcomed Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Mzwandile Petros’ immediate appointment of senior detectives to investigate this senseless killing. “With the help of our communities, who continue to partner with us in this battle on crime, we remain confident of imminent arrests.”

The police are appealing to members of the community who have witnessed or have any information to contact our Crime Stop, 08600 10 111 and Crime Line SMS, 32211, in order for us to rid the Service of members who are involved or allegedly involved in crime and corruption.

Zweli Mnisi
Chief Director: Communications/Spokesperson
Ministry of Police
Republic of South Africa
Tel: +27 (0)12 393 4341 & +27 (0)21 467 7007
Fax: +27 (0)12 393 2833 & +27 (0)21 467 7033
Mobile: +27 (0)82 045 4024

Website: www.saps.gov.za