News: National Commissioner welcomes arrest of murdered Community Patroller suspect

Pretoria: The National Commissioner of Police, General Khehla John Sitole has welcomed the speedy arrest of a suspect in connection with the murder of a community patroller this past weekend.

On Friday, 1 March 2019 at about 9:45pm, 54-year-old Billy Kleinhans, a community patroller was fatally shot at an open field in Mistletoe Street in Bethelsdorp.

In less than 48 hours, the Eastern Cape Provincial Organised Crime Investigation Unit (Gang Investigation), acting on a ‘tip off’, arrested a 35-year-old suspect at a house in Gloxinia Street.

The 35 year old suspect is currently in police custody and he is expected to appear in court today on a charge of murder and attempted murder.

“Mr Kleinhans had paid the ultimate price while protecting the community as a volunteer. Therefore, the speedy arrest of the suspect is most welcomed as it will provide some relief to the family that justice is being served”, said General Sitole.

In the meantime, the murder of a soccer boss this past Saturday as well as the attempted murder of his driver and an innocent bystander are still under investigation.

Mr Siphiwo Nyopo, 68 years of age, who was the owner of the Tornado football Club, his driver and an innocent bystander were shot while at Lennox Street in East London.

The two wounded victims are currently in hospital receiving medical attention.

No arrests have yet been made at this stage. However, the National Commissioner, General Sitole has directed that the 72 hour Activation Plan be mobilised. This plan entails the mobilisation of critical resources including Crime Intelligence, Forensic Experts, the Hawks as well as seasoned detectives to ensure that no intelligence, evidence and information that could ensure a successful end to this investigation is most. To this end a dedicated team has been assigned to conduct this investigation.

Source: South African Police Service

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