‘I will die for my community’
Emotions are high and spirits low at the Krugersdorp Police Station.
Krugersdorpers took hands and put on their reflective jackets to support the town’s men in blue.
Since CCTV footage surfaced of four Krugersdorp Police officers killing an alleged robbery suspect, the spirit at the Krugersdorp Police Station is at an all-time low.
After the four officers appeared in court, whereby three were denied bail, numerous members refused to show up for work during the night shift. Members from all the Community Policing Forums (CPF) joined the handful of police officers last night at the shift change, not only to show their support, but also to provide a helping hand for the night and to keep the town safe.
Pastor Maluleka opened with a prayer and delivered an inspirational sermon to those who showed up.
Social workers addressed the members and assured them they are not alone, and they need not suffer in silence as the community is behind them.
“Thank you for your commitment. Thank you for picking up your bulletproof vests again and for putting your lives on the line for your community,” Nancy Selemla, a Krugersdorp social worker said.
Gert Jonker, CPF Krugersdorp Cluster chairperson thanked the police for their partnership with the CPF and said the partnership will continue to grow stronger.
“We recognise your duty and the challenges you face daily as you make our town a safer place. Tonight we want to show that the police has the backing of this community. We are your partners in crime fighting,” Gert said.
The officers were assured that regardless of the shooting incident in Lewisham in October, the officers involved will have a fair trial in court with good representation.
The CPF and police will strengthen their partnership in this time to pick up the morale at the station.
“Please ask your colleagues on my behalf to come back to work,” Gert asked the handful of officers present.
CPF Sectors divided up into groups and supported the police to help keep the town safe for the night.
“Crime fighting is not just the police’s duty. The community needs to take hands to help catch criminals, no matter if they are killing us. I would die for my community,” Lieutenant Colonel DT Ramutovholwa said, who addressed the officers who reported for duty.
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