The ANC in Bronkhorstspruit has called on the police and prosecutions authority to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of the killers of Victor Mabunda last Wednesday.
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The magistrate was shot dead outside his Bronkhorstspruit home while talking to a neighbour.
In a statement on Sunday, the ANC expressed shock and sadness at Mabunda’s death.
“It is quite a disturbing act that a judicial officer was gunned down mercilessly for serving his duty and his fellow countrymen.
“Upon getting this news, we deemed it fit that as the local leadership we should to pay homage by visiting the Mabunda family on Monday.
“It is our firm belief that his murder might be linked to his service to the department (of justice) and in particular as a judicial officer who took a hard-line against those who break the law and continue to undermine the right of many of our law-abiding citizens.”
The party called on the SAPS and NPA to prioritise the case to ensure the “heartless criminals who target judicial officers thinking the justice system will cease to function are arrested and prosecuted”.
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“The state cannot be held hostage (by criminals). We demand our principals (ministry of justice) take action against the perpetrators of this heinous crime.”
The party commended Mabunda for his contribution to society during his tenure as a judicial officer
“During this difficult moment, our thoughts and prayers are with his family, relatives and the entire community of region 5 and 7. We are all still shattered and mourning his untimely passing. We have lost a dedicated servant of our people.
“We call upon our people to assist our law enforcement agencies to trace his killers for a speedy arrest.”
Mabunda’s brother Chris said the family was deeply saddened and shocked by his sudden loss.
“I am still reeling from the loss of my brother. I am confused and still do not understand why this happened,” said Chris, adding he wished the SAPS made a speedy arrest to give the family closure.
Chris suggested the department provided protection to magistrates on sensitive cases to prevent other killings.
Mabunda’s memorial service will be on Thursday in Bronkhorstspruit followed by a funeral in Giyani, Limpopo, where he was born.
SAPS spokesperson Colonel Lungelo Dlamini said no arrest had been made and the police were chasing several leads.
Mabunda is survived by four children, his parents, five brothers and eight sisters.
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