Third-quarter statistics for 2024/25 reveal that between October and December 2024, North West lost one off-duty police officer, contributing to the 13 police officers murdered nationwide during that period.

DA MPL Freddie Sonakile expressed concern over the safety challenges faced by officers, calling for immediate action. Addressing the convictions of three out of four individuals sentenced to life in prison for the 2021 murders of two police officers in Mareetsane, Sonakile said: “These convictions send a strong message to those planning to commit such crimes.”

The officers were ambushed while on duty, attacked with hammers, kidnapped, and ultimately burned alive inside their police vehicle after stopping a vehicle suspected of carrying stolen livestock. This brutal incident underscored the extreme dangers officers face in the field.

During a debate on the transfer of scholar transport functions from the Department of Community Safety and Transport Management to the Department of Education at the legislature headquarters in Mmabatho on Tuesday (11/3), Sonakile highlighted the implications of violent attacks on law enforcement.

He warned that such attacks undermine the rule of law and threaten not only police officers but also the communities they serve.

“While these convictions send a strong message, SAPS continues to face serious challenges, including under-resourcing, inadequate support, and increasing violent crimes against officers. Police protection must be prioritised through better training, improved equipment, and swift action against those who target law enforcement personnel.”

Sonakile also called for greater support for the families of fallen officers, ensuring they receive necessary financial assistance and trauma counselling.

He urged the Minister of Police and the National Police Commissioner to urgently implement enhanced safety measures, particularly for officers serving in rural and high-risk areas.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg