Cape Town Magistrate’s Court was abuzz today, as members of the Metro Police, law enforcement, and Traffic Services gathered in large numbers to show their support for Tyler Lamb, a Metro Police constable who died after falling from a roof while pursuing suspects involved in a business robbery in Kensington on Friday 7 November.
The suspect accused of killing the 30-year-old officer abandoned his bail application.
He appeared along with two others.
The state has since charged one suspect for murder and the remaining suspects face charges related to the robbery in addition to the illegal possession of ammunition.
During court proceedings it was revealed that the main accused along with the second accused would not be applying for bail. The third accused will be applying for bail.
The case has been postponed to Monday 17 November.
JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security, said the officer was part of the newly deployed Neighbourhood Safety Officers.
“According to the information obtained by our Safety and Security Investigative Unit (SSIU), the officers were conducting a Vehicle Check Point along Voortrekker Road, Kensington when they observed the driver of a Toyota Yaris behaving suspiciously.”
Smith said the motorist refused to stop and sped away as the officers gave chase.
“The vehicle was later brought to a halt, and officers witnessed a group of male suspects fleeing on foot into a nearby building. Officers called for back-up and one suspect handed himself over. On entering the building, they were informed that a suspect had climbed onto the roof.”
He explained that Lamb attempted to arrest the suspect but during the scuffle the officer fell through the roof.
Speaking outside the court, Metro Police chief Wayne le Roux, said: “We are here to show support to the family. We want to show the court the pain that the family go through. We show that we care.”
Le Roux expressed his gratitude to the officers for their dedication.
“If you injure one, we will stand together and we will not fall. We will give officer Lamb the best sendoff. Be safe out there.”
Mzwakhe Nqavashe, chair of safety and security portfolio committee for the city, welcomed the accused staying in custody and said he hopes that justice will prevail.
“The city is geared up and will support the family under these difficult circumstances. We will be working together with the family in preparation for Tyler’s final resting place. We condemn the incident because an attack to any officer is an attack to the city. I appreciate the support from the colleagues.”
Cheslyn Steenberg, Ward 56 councillor said he is saddened by the officer’s “tragic passing”.
“This officer’s dedication, courage, and commitment to service will not be forgotten. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this tragic time. In the next couple of days, I will support memorials held in his honour.”
Steenberg called on national government to declare a local state of disaster in the City of Cape Town.
Lamb’s wife took to social media and shared a heartfelt tribute to her late husband.
“Rest in enteral peace my husband. Thank you for showing me what true, unconditional love is.…I’ll carry you with me wherever we go. You’ll always have my heart and I’ll always, always have yours,” read parts of the post.
