Spokesperson for the KZN police, Robert Netshiunda, says unconfirmed reports about alleged arrests are misleading the public and could jeopardise ongoing investigations.

"We have noted with concern the ongoing media reports and speculations that are being peddled as a breakthrough in the murders of Forbes and Motsoane. Unconfirmed reports about the arrest of an ever-changing number of suspects have been doing the rounds and are misleading the public. 

"Although police understand the matter attracted media attention and the public awaits with bated breath for any developments, we are calling upon the media and everyone else to refrain from making reports that have the potential of jeopardising ongoing investigations. Such reports also have the potential to put at risk the lives of the people purported to have been arrested, as well as the lives of individuals who are portrayed as police officers in photographs and videos that have been doing the rounds on certain websites and social media platforms. 

'Armchair investigators, faceless sources'

Netshiunda says the police are appealing for space and time to investigate the matter "without undue pressure and unwarranted scrutiny from armchair investigators, analysists and faceless so-called sources who are claiming to be closer to the investigations".

"The police are duty-bound to keep the victims’ families informed about any developments in the investigations. These irresponsible reports rub salt into the fresh wounds of the family members who have put their faith in law enforcement to bring perpetrators to justice and for justice to prevail.

"Investigations into the murders are ongoing, and police will keep the public updated as and when there is any breakthrough or development worth communicating about."

OFM News