Mpumalanga police have ramped up efforts to track down those responsible for the tragic murder of Lieutenant Colonel Piet Pretorius, a seasoned police commander, who was gunned down while driving a state vehicle on Thursday afternoon. The incident, which took place just after 2 pm, has left the local community and police force shaken.
Lieutenant Colonel Pretorius, aged 59, was the head of the Vehicle Identification Unit in Ermelo. According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, but initial reports suggest that the officer was targeted while driving his official vehicle. The car was found riddled with bullet holes, and after the attack, the assailant reportedly fled the scene in a white sedan.
In response to the murder, a highly skilled team of investigators has been assembled to gather evidence and pursue all leads. A 72-hour action plan has been set in motion, mobilizing both local law enforcement and experts to quickly identify and arrest those responsible. The provincial police have expressed their determination to bring the perpetrators to justice as swiftly as possible.
The acting provincial commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, condemned the attack on Lieutenant Colonel Pretorius, emphasizing that such violence against police officers represents a direct assault on the state and public safety. “The society has lost an asset that was dedicated to ensuring their protection,” Mkhwanazi said. He also urged the community to support the investigation by coming forward with any information that might help solve the crime.
Police are calling on anyone with details that could assist in the case to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tips through the MYSAPS app. All information received will be kept confidential, and callers may choose to remain anonymous.
As the investigation progresses, the Mpumalanga police remain hopeful that the public will continue to aid in the pursuit of justice for Lieutenant Colonel Pretorius.
