KEY POINTS
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A high-level investigation has been launched into the shooting incident involving Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s convoy, which was hit by gunfire in Boksburg.
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Authorities confirmed that the ballistics report has been completed, and crime intelligence is actively assessing security risks for the executive.
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The incident has raised concerns about the safety of senior political figures, prompting a review of executive protection measures in South Africa.
A high-level investigative team has been assigned to probe the recent shooting incident involving the convoy of Paul Mashatile.
The incident, which took place while Mashatile was traveling home from an ANC NEC meeting in Boksburg, has sparked significant concern over the safety of senior government officials.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that the attack occurred when Mashatile’s vehicle was struck by gunfire three times. Initially, Mashatile had believed the car was being hit by stones, but he was later informed by his security detail that the projectiles were bullets.
In an official statement, Mathe shared that the incident had led to the initiation of a comprehensive investigation with the ballistics report already completed. “Further investigations are ongoing, and Crime Intelligence continues to assess the risks and threats to both the president and the deputy president,” she said.
Mashatile: Continued focus on executive security and protection
The high-level nature of the investigative response underscores the seriousness of the incident. Authorities have emphasized that the Presidential Protection Service, which safeguards both President Cyril Ramaphosa and Mashatile, is highly trained and well-equipped to prevent and respond to threats.
Sowetanlive reports that Mathe also highlighted that police resources for executive protection are continuously reviewed and expanded to ensure the safety of national leaders.
“We are committed to safeguarding the executive, and sufficient resources are always allocated to protect our leaders from any imminent threat,” she added.
The investigation into the shooting incident remains a priority, with authorities working closely to uncover the motives behind the attack and determine whether it was an isolated incident or part of a larger, coordinated plot.
The police are urging the public to trust the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of government officials.
As the case continues to unfold, there is mounting concern over the vulnerability of senior political figures in South Africa, with many calling for stricter security measures to prevent similar attacks in the future.
