The City of Cape Town is offering a R20 000 reward for information that will lead to the arrest of those responsible for the damage and theft of City assets following an incident in Valhalla Park, on Friday afternoon.
According to officials, LEAP officers came across a suspect
running with a firearm, in the area, who pointed it at the vehicle. The driver
thus lost control and hit a wall, injuring three persons in the process
SUPPLIEDLaw enforcement spokesperson, Wayne Dyason, explained that
while officers were seeing to the injured, bystanders turned on them, stoning
their vehicle and attempting to set it alight.
‘’The officers involved in the incident in Valhalla Park
were deployed as part of an operation in the area, when they heard gunshots at
approximately 15:26, and responded.’’
He added that community members allegedly also stole a
number of items from the vehicle, including three bodycams, EPIC devices and
cellphones.
‘’At least three more Law Enforcement vehicles that responded to the scene were stoned. The persons injured in the collision were transported to Tygerberg Hospital. The LEAP officers have been debriefed and are receiving assistance through the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). One person was arrested for malicious damage to property.’’
Subcouncil 15 Chairperson, Angus McKenzie, called on the
community to stand together, to reject violence, and to work hand in hand with
law enforcement to build a safer, stronger Valhalla Park.
‘’I am horrified, disgusted, and deeply dismayed by the
actions of certain community members in Valhalla Park today [Friday]…. This
type of behavior is absolutely unacceptable. It undermines the very foundation
of safety and security in our communities. When law enforcement officers — who
put their lives on the line daily to keep us safe — are attacked by the very
people they serve, it creates a climate of fear and mistrust that weakens all
of us.’’
‘’As communities, we must hold each other accountable. Those responsible for this heinous attack must not only be held accountable by the justice system but must also face condemnation from their own community. Violence against those tasked with protecting us can never be justified. It is extremely sad and disappointing that such an incident has taken place in Valhalla Park,’’ he added.
Anonymous tips can be directed to the City's 24/7 TIP-OFF LINE: 0800 110 077 (free call). Dyason assured the public that their identity will be protected, and all information are kept confidential.
Done By: Mitchum George
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