Cape Town train arson: Fritz pleads with community for assistance

MEC for Community Safety, Albert Fritz has called on the public to submit comments to help the Western Cape police ombudsman (WCPO), JJ Brand, in a thorough investigation of the SAPS’ inability to bring anyone to book for the series of train arson attacks in the province.

On 12 December 2019, a notice was published in the provincial government gazette inviting comments from the public on the investigation before 31 January 2020. 

Submission deadline looms

Fritz has called on members of the public to ensure their comments are submitted by the deadline. 

Fritz approached the WCPO last year to investigate why SAPS had been unable to identify or arrest suspects involved in the number of train arson attacks, which have severely impacted on the Cape Town rail system. 

Fritz said: “I encourage members of the public to provide their comments to enable the Ombudsman’s office to make an informed finding and recommendations. Submissions regarding the investigation can be made up until 31 January 2020.” 

The written representations should be marked for the attention of JJ Brand and delivered by hand, email post or fax as follows:

• By hand: 6th Floor, NBS Waldorf Building, 80 St Georges Mall, Cape Town 8001;
• By post: Private Bag X9043, Cape Town 8000;
• By e-mail: ombudsman@wcpo.gov.za; or
• By fax: 021 483 0660. 

Fritz said: “I have been informed by the WCPO that in the interim, the investigation will continue with interviews and the gathering of evidence. I am reassured by the progress made and look forward to the outcome of the investigation.”

By African News Agency (ANA); Editing by Naomi Mackay