COP KILLED IN COLD BLOOD

By Akhona Maseti

IN a heartbreaking turn of events, a young police officer’s life was cut short in Gelvandale. 

Constable Callan Andrews (29) was fatally shot while on duty in the Eastern Cape on New Year’s Eve, 31 December 2024.

Lieutenant-Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa said: “It’s alleged that at about 5.35pm, two police officers were on routine patrol in Gelvandale when their vehicle stalled on Kobus Road, Helenvale.”

While residents assisted them in restarting the vehicle, a gunshot rang out.

The driver discovered that Constable Andrews had been shot in the head. Tragically, he later died in the hospital.

The constable’s firearm was missing, leading to an intensive investigation.

“An investigation is underway, and no arrests have been made. The DPCI has taken over the case for further examination,” Mawisa said.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nomthetheleli Mene condemned the attack, urging the public to assist in the pursuit of justice.

“The recent killing of a police constable is deeply condemned. We call on the community to provide information leading to the arrest of those responsible,” she said.

DA member of provincial legislature Yusuf Cassim expressed outrage at the senseless murder of the officer, who was stationed at Gelvandale cop shop. 

“We cannot allow the tragic and brutal killing of a police officer with a bright future ahead of him to become a mere statistic. Crime in the Northern Areas has been spiraling out of control for years, creating an abnormal situation that has claimed countless innocent lives,” Cassim said.

He highlighted the dire situation in the Northern Areas and Nelson Mandela Bay, where police are under-resourced.

“I’ve written to authorities requesting a significant reward for the identification and conviction of those responsible for this heinous crime,” added Cassim.