WC MEC Anroux Marais Slams Attack On Police Officers And Burning Of SAPS Vehicle In Khayelitsha

Western Cape Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC Anroux Marais has expressed outrage and concern following a violent attack on police officers in Khayelitsha.

The incident occurred during a protest in the Empolweni informal settlement on Wednesday night, where a police Nyala was set alight amid escalating unrest.

Makhaza police have since opened cases of attempted murder, public violence, and malicious damage to property. Fortunately, the officers involved managed to escape the burning vehicle without sustaining any injuries.

khayelitsha Protest Turns Chaotic as Police Vehicle Set Alight

According to reports, the protest quickly spiralled out of control as demonstrators clashed with law enforcement.

Marais emphasised the devastating impact of such incidents, noting that law enforcement resources are already stretched thin.

Marais Warns Against Undermining Policing Efforts

Condemning the violence, Marais described the attack as “a slap in the face” to communities pleading for greater police presence.

“This brazen attack on police officers and the deliberate destruction of critical policing resources is a slap in the face of communities who have been urgently calling for more policing resources in the province,” she said.

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Marais reiterated her department’s commitment to supporting law enforcement while urging communities to work with authorities rather than against them to ensure safety and stability in high-risk areas.

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