National Police Commissioner Vows Action Amid Corruption Allegations
National Police Commissioner Vows Action Amid Corruption Allegations
Natalie Nyathi
The community of Reiger Park in Boksburg is in shock following a terrible drive-by shooting that left six people dead and three others injured. In response to this tragedy, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has pledged to send an external investigating team to the Reiger Park police station due to ongoing claims of police corruption and ties to local gangs.
The shooting happened on the evening of November 1 across several streets in Reiger Park, with people in a silver and black VW Polo reportedly opening fire on a group. The victims have been identified as Danielle Barlow, Ruth Marais, Patricia Nieuwenhysen, Rayden Joseph, Mapaso Midian, and a person known only as Sonto. The reasons behind the attack are still unclear, but some sources suggest it may be linked to a gang-related dispute.
Following the incident, General Masemola met with Gauteng Acting Police Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana and other senior officers to discuss the police response. He announced that extra police officers would be sent to Reiger Park to help prevent more violence and to keep a strong police presence in the area. “We will maintain a strong presence in Reiger Park to stabilize the area and arrest suspects connected to the shooting,” Masemola said. He also encouraged parents to guide their children and asked residents to work with the police in identifying those responsible.
The decision to send an external investigating team reflects the urgency to address long-standing concerns about corruption at the Reiger Park police station. For years, residents have complained about police responses, claiming that some officers may be colluding with criminals.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has expressed his support for the police’s efforts, promising government assistance for the families of the victims and urging law enforcement to act swiftly. “The mission is simple: hunt them down,” Lesufi stated.
The Democratic Alliance has condemned the shooting and is calling for urgent action to restore safety and trust in the community. DA Ekurhuleni Councillor Izelle Senol pointed out that the party had previously raised concerns about rising crime in Reiger Park, but the responses received were not enough.
