Acting Police Minister Mourns Fallen Officers, Vows Justice After Deadly Attacks
Evident Makatwane 
Image Credit: SAPS
Johannesburg – 10 August 2025
Acting Minister of Police Professor Firoz Cachalia has expressed deep sorrow following the fatal shootings of three police officers in separate incidents over the weekend, calling the attacks “an assault on the rule of law and the safety of all South Africans.”
On Sunday, Cachalia visited the grieving families of Warrant Officer Vuyisile Sintwa (51) and Sergeant Simon Masenye (45), who were killed on Friday during an ambush in Roodepoort town centre. The officers had been escorting awaiting trial prisoner Jabulani Moyo when gunmen opened fire.
Moyo, who was facing multiple charges, remains at large, prompting the South African Police Service (SAPS) to launch a nationwide manhunt. Authorities have offered a R150,000 cash reward for information leading to his capture, warning the public that he is armed and dangerous.
“We strongly condemn these heinous crimes, and we will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice,” Cachalia said. “We call on all SAPS members to remain alert and use all available resources to protect themselves and the communities they serve.”
Another Officer Killed in Mpumalanga
The Acting Minister also conveyed condolences to the family of Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni from Mpumalanga, who was fatally shot on Saturday while responding to a burglary in Schoemansdal near Komatipoort.
Police reports indicate that Mtshweni came under fire upon arrival at the scene, highlighting once again the dangers officers face daily while on duty.
Nationwide Outrage and Call for Vigilance
Cachalia described the killings as a direct challenge to South Africa’s justice system, warning that attacks on police undermine national security. He pledged that SAPS would intensify efforts to track down those responsible, including ramping up intelligence operations and inter-provincial cooperation.
Law enforcement unions and community safety groups have echoed calls for enhanced officer protection measures, including improved body armour, increased backup during prisoner transfers, and stricter protocols when dealing with high-risk suspects.
Public Assistance Urged
Authorities have urged anyone with credible information about Moyo’s location to come forward immediately. Tip-offs can be made anonymously via the SAPS Crime Stop line at 08600 10111 or the MySAPS mobile app.
Warning: Moyo is considered extremely dangerous. Members of the public are advised not to approach him under any circumstances.
Key Facts:
- Date of incidents: 8–9 August 2025
- Locations: Roodepoort (Gauteng) & Schoemansdal (Mpumalanga)
- Officers killed: W/O Vuyisile Sintwa, Sgt Simon Masenye, Sgt Lawrence Mtshweni
- Suspect: Jabulani Moyo – awaiting trial, on the run
- Reward: R150,000 for information leading to Moyo’s arrest
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