The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) condemns the recent robbery and murder of a Sasko bakery delivery team that took place in Delf Cape Town. We welcome the arrest of one of the murderers and call for a swift arrest of his accomplice. They must be sentenced to 3 life sentences each, which must run separately, not concurrently.
SAFTU emphasizes the need for swift action from law enforcement to bring the perpetrators to justice. There is no need for investigation as the truck footage reveals their face, and witness to all of us the cold-blooded murder they carried senselessly against the delivery team.
SAFTU expresses deep concern over the violent crime that took lives of workers on duty and offers condolences to the families of the victims. Because of the growing crime and violence in our communities, it is becoming quite dangerous for many workers who work in these communities. Truck drivers, delivery workers, security guards and construction workers are currently and increasingly bearing the brunt of this violence, calling into question the capacity of the state to protect workers and residents.
The proliferation of these murders, by brazen offenders who do not even attempt to hide their faces, is proof that crime has grown and criminals no longer fear the law enforcement agencies. Crime Statistics show that in the 3rd Quarter of 2023, there were 35 579 victims who suffered robbery with aggravating circumstances and 7 710 murders. Of these murders, 404 murders occurred during robbery.
These are alarming numbers and mean unsafe communities, reflecting how criminals are comfortable and terrorizing citizens. The senseless shooting of the SASKO delivery team after robbing them explains how terroristic these criminals have become.
SAFTU demands the South African Police Services (SAPS) increase their efforts in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators responsible for this murder. We encourage communities to cooperate with the police in identifying these murderers. SAPS must guarantee safety to those who help them in identifying these criminals.
