The Eastern Cape Provincial Police Commissioner, Lt General Nomthetheleli Mene, conveyed her disdain at the individual who stole a deceased police officer’s firearm after he was fatally injured in a vehicle accident in Gqeberha this morning, August 20.

According to police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, it is alleged that at about 06:10 this morning, Lt Col Sandile Matam (51) of the Motherwell SAPS, was driving in Tyinirha Street. While he was in a traffic circle, a Toyota Quantum collided into the driver’s side of his Toyota Avanza.

She said he passed away on the scene.

“The driver of the Quantum vehicle was arrested for drunken driving and culpable homicide.

“While police were busy with the crime scene investigation, it was established that the officer’s 9mm state-issued firearm was stolen, said Naidu.

A case of theft of a firearm was opened for further investigation.

“The 31-year-old suspect is expected to appear in the Motherwell magistrate court on Monday, August 21, for drunken driving and culpable homicide,” she added.

Lt. Gen Mene said that the theft of the firearm not only disrespects the memory of the fallen officer but also poses a significant threat to our community’s safety.

“We, the SAPS family in blue, not only express our grief but also issue a clarion call to the members of our community to come together to rectify this grave injustice,” said Mene.

“We urge the community to assist the police in recovering the stolen firearm and to bring those responsible to justice. Let us remember Lt. Col Matam’s sacrifice as a reminder of the dangers our officers willingly face every day to protect our citizens.”