The Police Ministry has confirmed that one suspect was arrested on Tuesday evening, in connection with the violent attack on three Members of Parliament near Philippi East earlier that day.
Ian Cameron, Chairperson of Parliament’s Police Portfolio Committee, and his colleagues Nicholas Gotsell and Lisa Schickerling came under attack in a smash-and-grab incident following an oversight visit to the Philippi SAPS training academy.
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The National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, said the suspect was arrested after seeking medical treatment in Lentegeur. He is still under police guard in the hospital.
Cameron, who sustained “a few stitches and dental damage”, said the ordeal highlighted the dangers of oversight work.
“Incidents like this will not deter us. We remain determined to carry out our responsibility to ensure accountability and safety.”
He thanked emergency services and supporters.
“Tonight I was able to sit down with my family for dinner, and for that we are eternally grateful. Dankie Jesus!!!”
Gotsell, who suffered a head wound, also praised the emergency responders, calling the incident an attack on people who want to build safer communities.
“This was not a deterrent; it was a reminder of the aggression and brutality that our communities are faced with every day. We will continue to do the work we were elected to do – in all our communities.”
Meanwhile, Masemola has instructed investigators to work around the clock to track down all the suspects involved. He ordered investigators with the Provincial Serious Violent Crime unit to prioritise the case.
“This criminal act, which targeted Members of Parliament, is a direct attack on the safety of citizens and will not be tolerated. We are sending a stern warning to all those involved in serious and violent crimes; the SAPS has deployed all available resources to ensure that criminals are hunted down, apprehended, and put behind bars to face the full might of the law”
