PRETORIA – The National Commissioner of Police, General Khehla John Sitole has expressed shock at the untimely passing of two police officers last night in Deneysville in the Free State Province.

At about 8:15 last night two members, a Warrant Officer and a Sergeant, of the Deneysville SAPS on duty on the R594 road inspecting a truck under the Covid-19 Regulations when they were both killed.

A driver of a 1400 light delivery vehicle (LDV), who was allegedly heavily under the influence of alcohol, had collided into both the policemen despite them being attired in reflector jackets.

The National Commissioner has expressed outrage at the news of the members’ passing calling for speedy justice to prevail in this matter.

“The untimely passing of our two colleagues is indeed a bitter pill to swallow” said General Sitole.

“We trust that, the man allegedly responsible for their deaths and who is currently behind bars, will be served with a deserving punishment if convicted”, added General Sitole.

The National Commissioner has expressed his condolences to the families of both members and has also directed that the Free State Provincial Commissioner render all the necessary support to the bereaved family.

The driver of the LDV was is in police custody and he is likely to face charges of Culpable Homicide, Driving under the influence of alcohol as well as contravention of the Regulations of the Disaster Management Act in that he failed to remain in his house during the Lockdown.

Source: South African Police Service