| 2025/03/26 |
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Media Statement NELSPRUIT – The SAPS in Mpumalanga would like to set the record straight regarding the recent circulation of a video on various social media platforms, depicting Matsulu area as a high crime zone where people are murdered without any intervention from the Police. It has come to the attention of the SAPS in the province that the video which was recorded some time ago, misrepresents the current situation in Matsulu by portraying the policing precinct as a continuous breeding ground of crime. While it is acknowledged that there was a tragic incident that occurred on 02 April 2024, where a 40-year-old woman (Dorris Alina Sibiya) and her daughter, (Noxolo Simile Khoza) were brutally murdered, but it should be equally reported that in this isolated incident, Police made a breakthrough and arrested the perpetrator by the name of Thulani Foshini “Mathousand” Sikhundla in Barberton on 08 April 2024. Sikhundla was subsequently convicted and sentenced, stemming from the incident. Sikhundla first attacked Noxolo in her bedroom and then proceeded to stab Sibiya multiple times. Sibiya’s teenage son intervened upon hearing the screams but managed to escape unharmed despite being attacked by the accused. Sikhundla fled the scene and went into hiding, while both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. The manner in which this case of double murder was handled by the SAPS, shows that the Police took swift action to bring the perpetrator to justice. The SAPS continues to urge members of the public to participate in community engagements and events, aimed at addressing crime-related issues and collaborating with law enforcement agencies. Instead of casting the stone, the community members are encouraged to join hands with Police in the fight against crime and work towards creating safer environments for all. Recently, a Feedback on Ministerial Community Engagement (Imbizo) on Crime was held in Matsulu to provide progress to the community and address concerns raised during previous engagements. The collaboration between the SAPS, the Civilian Secretariat of the Police, and other stakeholders has been instrumental in improving policing in the area of Matsulu. The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi has emphasized that the SAPS remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents in Matsulu and across the province. “We call on the public to verify information before sharing it on social media platforms to avoid spreading false narratives that can harm the reputation of the Police. We are also appreciative to all members of the community that are continuously coming up with valuable information that are assisting in our endeavours to ensure safety for all,” said the General. Ends
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