Deputy President Paul Mashatile is deeply saddened by the passing of one of his protectors, Warrant Officer Jacob Shuwa Leeuw, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Leeuw had been a dedicated member of the Presidential Protection Services for many years, serving under former President Jacob Zuma and Mashatile’s predecessor, David Mabuza.
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Mashatile himself assumed the role of deputy president earlier this year following Mabuza’s resignation.
This unfortunate event marks the second loss of a protector within a span of two months.
Warrant Officer Lindela Mraqisa, the protector of Deputy Minister of Police Cassel Mathale, tragically lost his life in a mass shooting incident in Gugulethu, Cape Town, in October. Mraqisa was one of the five victims of this senseless act of violence.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Presidency confirmed Leeuw’s passing. “Warrant Officer Jacob Shuwa Leeuw passed away on November 14 after a valiant battle with cancer.
He joined the Intransit Protection team in 2015, where he diligently served in the protection of both Zuma and Mabuza.
At the time of his passing, he was fulfilling his duties as a protector to Deputy President Paul Mashatile,” said Mashatile’s office.
The loss of a dedicated member of the Presidential Protection Services is deeply felt by Mashatile and his team.
The protectors play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the deputy president and other high-ranking officials. Their commitment and sacrifice are commendable, and their loss is mourned by the entire nation.
