The SAHRC acknowledges that the Constitution guarantees the fundamental human rights of all citizens. However, this can never exclude our women and men in the police services. They have rights too and it is our duty to ensure that they are protected in the execution of their duties.

The SAHRC condemns the wave of lawlessness that our country is experiencing at so many levels. Criminal conduct such as these killings must have consequences and perpetrators cannot continue with these crimes with impunity.

The SAHRC acknowledges that policing is a hazardous occupation, but there is no justification that their service to the people of South Africa should lead to their untimely deaths. All of South Africa’s inhabitants should respect the South African Police Service (SAPS), especially considering the unpredictable nature of their job.

The SAHRC calls on the SAPS to conduct a full investigation into these brutal crimes, and for our communities to assist the police wherever they can so that those who contravene the law are dealt with swiftly and within the confines of the law.

The SAHRC stands by all in South Africa who have had their rights compromised, and we mourn with the nation at the loss of the lives of police officers who bravely fight against crime every day.
Our sincerest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues during this time of bereavement.
ENDS

Issued by the SA Human Rights Commission

Isaac Mangena
SAHRC Spokesperson
071 884 8273