Motherwell Policewoman gunned down

Port Elizabeth – An off-duty police constable has died after being gunned down in front of her home in Motherwell on Thursday morning.

Police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge said 36-year-old Constable Nomathamsanqa Ivy Tsitsi had just arrived at her residence in Mcelu Street, NU8, Motherwell at 06:00, after working the night shift. An unknown man approached her in her driveway and fired several shots towards her black Citroen.

Beetge said Tsitsi sustained injuries to the upper body and she passed away on the scene.

Tsitsi joined the SA Police Service in January 2005 and was stationed at Zwide station as a shift worker. SAPS Eastern Cape management expressed their deepest condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.

“It is indeed a sad day for the police in the province when we report the killing of yet another police official.

“We condemn the killing in the strongest possible way and will zealously bring to book those who never think twice when shooting and murdering police officials. We will also provide all the necessary support to our slain colleague’s family to help them through this very testing time,” provincial commissioner lieutenant-general Celiwe Binta said.

She said the motive for the murder was under investigation and police did not want speculate on reasons at this early stage.

“We also make calls on our courageous men and women in blue to please observe safety measures at all time to protect themselves when carrying out their duties and to be alert against attacks whether on or off duty.”

A murder case has been opened at Motherwell SAPS and the police urged anyone with information to contact lieutenant-colonel Jackie Grobler at 082 065 9785 or the Motherwell Crime office at 041 4076471.

Information could also be shared on SAPS Crime Stop 08600 10 111 and/or Crime Line 33221. All information would be treated as confidential.

Derrick Spies, News24