PROVINCIAL COMMISSIONER CONDEMNS KILLING OF ELUKWATINI STATION COMMANDER, APPLAUDS THE SWIFT ARREST OF THE SUSPECTS
Media Statement issued by the office of the Provincial Commissioner in Mpumalanga
Nelspruit : 30 December 2021 – The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela has condemned in the strongest possible terms the killing of Colonel Beauty Marivate who was the Station Commander of Elukwatini SAPS, in an incident which occurred in the early hours of this morning. She has also in the same breath applauded the swift arrest of five suspects in connection with the incident.
According to the information, the senior officer received a call about a business burglary in progress and immediately rushed to the scene as other officers made their way to provide backup. Upon arrival she was noticed by the suspects and a shootout ensued and she was shot and injured in the process.
When the other members arrived they immediately called emergency services and she was rushed to hospital where she succumbed to her injuries.
Meanwhile the members worked tirelessly and managed to arrest one of the suspects at the scene, who was in possession of an unlicensed firearm. They further dug deep and gathered information where they traced the other suspects and found them hiding out in a house at Enhlazatshe no. 7 and they too were swiftly arrested.
The suspects are expected to appear at the Elukwatini Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, 31 December 2021, on various charges.
The Provincial Commissioner further extends her heartfelt condolences to the family of the late senior officer. She also further applauded her for her many years of excellent service and contribution in the fight against crime. She also heaped praise upon the police officers who worked around the clock to ensure the swift arrest of the suspects.
Media Enquiries:
Captain Gugu Phiri
0824653701
