City mourns officer who lost his life on duty

A law enforcement officer tragically lost his life while on duty travelling from an operation in Atlantis to Mitchells Plain when he lost control of the vehicle.

According to reports, Shakeel Abrahams, 24, and his colleagues were returning from an anti-gang operation on Sunday morning and travelling along Weltevreden Road towards Westgate Mall.

He was driving the vehicle to drop off colleagues in Mitchells Plain when he lost control of the vehicle.

He and another officer were transported to hospital where Abrahams unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.

City of Cape Town Mayoral Committee member for safety and security JP Smith said the City extends its condolences to Abrahams’ family.

Smith says: “The 24-year-old officer along with his partner suffered extensive injuries in the incident and later passed away in hospital. The officers who are stationed at Philippi East had been travelling from an anti-gang operation in Atlantis and were dropping off colleagues in Mitchells Plain.

“The Safety and Security directorate is saddened by the death of the dedicated officer and offer our condolences to the grieving family. We wish the second officer a speedy recovery and have vowed our support to the families. I will be visiting the affected families this week.”

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie reports that Mitchells Plain police have registered a case of culpable homicide after the incident occurred at 3.30am.

Messages of condolences and tributes have been pouring in on social media including from Fight Against Crime SA (FACSA) who have extended their condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the slain officer.

FACSA says: “Officer Abrahams served his community with exceptional courage, integrity, and dedication. His commitment to public safety and his willingness to stand in the gap for others will forever be remembered. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.

“May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him the highest place in Jannah-tul-Firdous. We pray that Allah (SWT) brings comfort, sabr, and strength to all who mourn his loss.”