The Western Cape police management as well as the provincial government has condemned the killing of a neighbourhood watch (NHW) member in Khayelitsha.
Monwabisi Mkhutshulwa, 51, was gunned down while patrolling in Makhaza, on Saturday night.
‘’On Saturday 18 January 2025 at about 23:00, a group of neighbourhood watch members were patrolling in Ezimfenenni, Nkanini informal settlement in Makhaza when they came across a group men who were standing on the corner of the street. It is reported that gunshots were heard of which the deceased was hit in the shoulder and leg. He fell to the ground and succumbed to injury,’’ said Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie, Western Cape police spokesperson.
PICTURED: Monwabisi Mkhutshulwa, 51A murder case is being probed. The Western Cape’s police commissioner, Lt Gen Thembisile Patekile, described the incident as ‘’a callous, selfless act against the community and those who serve their community with pride.’’
Western Cape Police Oversight and Community Safety, MEC,
Anroux Marais, has expressed shock at the incident.
“I want to express my deepest condolences to the family and
loved ones of our slain Neighbourhood Watch member. This is a tragedy. He was
trying to make Makhaza a safer place when he was killed. I urge any members of
the public who may be able to assist the South African Police Service in the
investigation into this attack."
The Khayelitsha Community Policing Forum (CPF) has
condemned this heinous act, emphasizing that every crime fighter lost is a
setback to the hard-won gains in the fight against crime. They have called for
law enforcement resources to be mobilized urgently to bring those responsible
to justice and to ensure this case is treated with the seriousness it deserves.
Parliament’s Chairperson for Portfolio Committee on Police,
Ian Cameron, said more needs to be done to protect NHW members
‘’This incident highlights the immense risks faced by
volunteer patrollers who dedicate themselves to fighting crime with limited
resources. It also serves as a reminder of the relentless efforts by criminals
to undermine community safety initiatives.’’
‘’Monwabisi’s murder is a stark reminder of the critical
need for increased police intervention and greater support for community safety
structures. His death must strengthen, not weaken, the collective resolve to
fight back against crime in Khayelitsha and beyond. Monwabisi’s family, fellow
patrollers, and the Khayelitsha community deserve justice and accountability
for this senseless loss,’’ added Cameron.
Done by: Mitchum George
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