The family of Detective Warrant Officer Andrew James Houston (51) who was shot dead, has called on the ‘top cops’ to mobilise all resources to apprehend the suspects.
The hit occurred just outside Harding Secondary School hall last Saturday at about 08:30. Officer Houston had just wished his 71-year-old mother happy birthday and was on his way to the Harding police station when he came under fire. His state vehicle, a dark grey bakkie, was riddled with bullets holes.
Police spokesperson, Brigadier Jay Naicker said Houston was driving a state vehicle when he was shot several times on the body by unknown people. “He was confirmed dead at the scene. The Hawks are investigating a case of murder and no arrests have been made as yet.”
Houston’s brother, Jesmond Cross said he died a hero protecting the people of this country.
“He served the community of Harding with pride as he placed himself on duty and put the safety of his community before his own for 32 years. He was jovial and loved his family dearly. Before he went to work he made sure he stopped at mum’s home and wished her happy birthday. Now my mother will remember her son’s death on her birthday,” he said.
Cross added that there were a number of bullet holes on the driver’s side. “There were also about 20 empty cartridges on the ground next to his police vehicle.”
“On the day of the shooting it took police over an hour to reach the scene and the police station is less than 250 metres from where the incident happened. People were walking all over contaminating the scene. It was heartbreaking for my family seeing people going to peep at his body in the vehicle.”
Houston’s family is still in shock. “We call on the police to mobilise all resources to apprehend the killers. My brother leaves behind his wife, two daughters and a son whom he loved so dearly.”
Cross stressed that crime in Harding is out of control. “We are living in fear every day and taking out a police officer shows how serious crime is out of control.”
A resident and business owner in Harding said shootings in the area have increased. “We need the top cops within this district to come here from Thursday to Sunday and see for themselves what’s happens in Harding. They must stay overnight too and hear what we go through. They will be very afraid.”
A state memorial service will be held at AFM Harding today (Thursday). A funeral service will be held at Harding Secondary School hall this Saturday (25th).
Police were unable to provide further information regarding Houston’s murder. It had been reported that a number of murders had occurred recently and community members are living in fear.
A 37-year-old businessman was shot and killed in Murchison Street, Harding in May. Three armed men entered the business premises and shot Sonwabile Shezi. He was declared dead at the scene.
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