NORTH WEST LEGISLATURE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON COMMUNITY SAFETY WELCOMES SAPS BREAKTHROUGH IN THATO MOLOSANKWE MURDER INVESTIGATION

The North West Provincial Legislature Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management chaired by Hon. Freddy Sonakile welcomes the significant breakthrough by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the investigation into the brutal murder of Mahikeng community activist, Thato Molosankwe.

The development was announced today by the Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in the North West, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, alongside the MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng. The Committee commends the investigating team and all law enforcement officials whose dedication has led to this important breakthrough.

The Committee specifically acknowledges the Provincial Murder and Robbery Investigation Unit, Crime Intelligence, forensic specialists and members of the public who provided information that assisted the investigation.

“While no arrest can ever restore the life of Thato Molosankwe or erase the pain suffered by his family, this breakthrough sends a clear message that justice will relentlessly pursue those who believe they can act with impunity. Criminals must know that the North West is no safe haven for lawlessness,” said Hon Sonakile.

The Committee is encouraged by the arrest of the two suspects but notes with concern that the first suspect arrested in connection with Mr Molosankwe’s murder, just three days after the killing, has also been linked to the murder of Mahikeng businessman Mr Sergio Gomes and his wife, Marlene Gomes. This raises serious concerns about the possibility of organised criminal activity, which the ongoing investigation must fully uncover.

The Committee continues to urge anyone with additional information to assist the police as investigations continue. It also extends its heartfelt condolences to the Molosankwe family, recognising that while this breakthrough advances the cause of justice, it also reopens painful wounds.

The Committee further acknowledges the support provided by Acting National Commissioner Major General Puleng Dimpane, who committed additional national resources to the investigation shortly after Mr Molosankwe’s murder.

The Committee remains steadfast in its support of SAPS and encourages the police to maintain this momentum in ensuring that the North West remains a no-go area for criminals.

Ends

Issued on behalf of the Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management – Hon Freddy Sonakile
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