Minister Grant Condemns Vicious Attack on On-Duty Provincial Traffic Officer

Statement by Donald Grant, Minister of Transport and Public Works

Early yesterday evening (25 May 2015), at about 17:45, on-duty Provincial Traffic Inspector Natasha van Roon was viciously attacked by two male assailants, while her vehicle was parked on the shoulder of the N7 between the Caltex Refinery and Du Noon, direction Malmesbury. The armed male assailants are said to have approached her vehicle before proceeding to knock against the window of the vehicle supposedly get her attention. One of the assailants then opened fire on the vehicle, while Inspector van Roon was still inside.

Inspector van Roon was wounded in the arm, and the suspects fled the scene after having robbed her of a firearm and two fully loaded magazines. She was later treated at the Milnerton Medi-Clinic and subsequently discharged.

We condemn such vicious attacks on any law enforcement officers in the strongest terms. This shooting was an unconscionable act of violence, not just against Inspector van Roon, but against law and order and the values that underpin our democracy. We must do all we can to send a strong message to those who take up arms, in criminal acts of violence against our law enforcement officers.

My Department will work closely with SAPS during their investigation to ensure that these criminals are brought to justice. We appeal to anyone with information regarding the shooting to contact Constable Otto, from SAPS Bothasig, on 072 760 1032.

Officials such as Inspector van Roon are doing their duty in trying to ensure the safety of our road users. This attack shows the extent to which criminals will go in order to prevent this.

We wish Inspector van Roon a speedy recovery, and look forward to her continued selfless service to the people of the Western Cape.