The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has learned with deep concern the kidnapping of Honourable Moipone Mhlongo who currently serves as one of the youngest Members of the Provincial Legislature (MPL) and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Education.
Hon. Mhlongo was tragically hijacked and abducted yesterday at Etwatwa in Ekurhuleni under circumstances that remain unclear.
The Committee remains relieved that Hon. Mhlongo was found safe on the same day after enduring an extremely traumatic ordeal with senseless criminals.
The Committee would like to express its gratitude to law enforcement agencies, security personnel and everyone who contributed towards her safe return.
Their swift and tireless efforts were instrumental in bringing this traumatic event to a peaceful conclusion.
The Committee further thanks members of the public who upon learning about this ordeal, shared details of this incident on their various social media platforms to ensure that every possible effort is made to locate her and bring her home safely to her family.
The Committee wishes Hon. Mhlongo well as she recovers from this traumatic experience and would like to see her back in action as she continues her vital work as an MPL and serving the people of Gauteng.
While the Committee is immensely relieved by Hon. Mhlongo’s safe return, it remains deeply concerned about the broader implications of such heinous acts of criminality.
Acts of violence and intimidation have no place in our society and law enforcement agencies should not be deterred in their pursuit of justice and peace.
The unprecedented rise in violent crimes, including extortion, armed robberies and hijackings continue to create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity that can no longer be ignored in our communities.
At times like this, decisive action is required to restore law and order, protect lives and prevent further deterioration of safety across various communities.
It is for this reason that the Committee would like to resuscitate the discussion around the declaration of a state of emergency to empower government to deploy additional resources to support the Police in combating crime effectively.