Police Seek Community Support to Resolve Murder of Tlhabane Community Patroller

The brutal killing of a dedicated community patroller, Melusi Dladla, has shaken the residents of Tlhabane and placed the spotlight on community safety in South Africa. Melusi Dladla was discovered dead in a small thicket near the R510 road in Zinniaville, a grim discovery made in the early hours of Tuesday, 6 August 2024.

Dladla, 54, was found with a fatal gunshot wound to his neck, and it's been reported that he was shot while bravely confronting two suspects during his patrol. His tragic demise underlines the perils that community patrols face in their mission to safe-keep neighborhoods.

The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lt Gen Sello Kwena, expressed his profound distress over the tragic loss of such a vigilant and courageous member of the community. In his statement, Lt Gen Kwena vowed that the South African Police Service (SAPS) will not rest until the perpetrators of this callous act are apprehended and justice is served. He highlighted the critical role community members play in supporting law enforcement and safeguarding their neighborhoods, which is often a perilous undertaking.

In a plea for public assistance, the SAPS has called upon anyone with information regarding the fatal shooting to come forward. Sgt Whalter Seome, the Investigating Officer, can be reached directly on 082 773 0696. Those who wish to provide information anonymously may do so via Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App.

Lt Gen Kwena also reached out to residents interested in active crime prevention, encouraging them to join local Community Police Forums (CPF). These forums have 'Community in Blue Patrollers' who collaborate closely with police forces to enhance the effectiveness of community policing efforts. Highlighting the risks involved, Kwena also advised patrollers to work in pairs or groups, avoiding the potential hazards of patrolling alone.

The murder of Melusi Dladla is not just a loss to his family and friends but a blow to the spirit of community-led initiatives designed to urge residents to take a proactive stance in maintaining safety and security. His selfless service to the community will be honored as the quest for justice continues, with the SAPS keen on reinforcing their presence and support in such endeavors.

The Tlhabane community remains hopeful that with the aid of the local populace, the suspects will soon be facing the law, and the memory of Dladla's commitment to safety can pave the way for a more secure future for the citizens he sought to protect.