South Africans Reject Police Efforts, Urging Authorities to Find Fugitive on Their Own Amid Rising Distrust
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| Official SAPS reward notice offering R150,000 for information on fugitive Jabulani Thang Moyo, wanted for the fatal shooting of two Roodepoort detectives. |
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced a R150,000 cash reward for information on the whereabouts of Jabulani Thang Moyo, the awaiting trial prisoner accused of shooting and killing two detectives in Roodepoort on Friday morning.
But instead of rallying behind the police, many South Africans have responded with a blunt message: “Go find him yourselves.”
The fierce backlash on social media reflects years of public mistrust toward SAPS, with citizens citing heavy-handed policing, double standards, and frustration over government inaction on illegal immigration.
The Fatal Incident in Roodepoort
According to SAPS, Moyo was being transported from court on Friday morning when he allegedly pulled out a firearm, fatally shot two detectives, and fled on foot.
Police say he is armed and extremely dangerous, and a province-wide manhunt is underway. SAPS has urged anyone with information to call the Crime Stop hotline (08600 10111) or use the MySAPS app, promising that all tips will be treated confidentially.
Public Reaction: Refusal to Assist
Instead of widespread cooperation, SAPS’ reward announcement was met with waves of online criticism. On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and TikTok, users posted messages like:
“The same police who arrest us for protesting against illegal immigration now want our help? They must go find him themselves.”
Why People Are Refusing
1. Perceived hypocrisy
Citizens argue that SAPS is quick to arrest peaceful protesters especially those demonstrating about immigration but expects public assistance when police are the victims.
2. Heavy-handed tactics
Footage of SAPS officers using excessive force against demonstrators has circulated widely, fuelling resentment.
3. Lack of reciprocity
Many claim they receive little to no help from police when they report crimes in their own communities.
4. Safety concerns
Some worry that providing information could expose them to retaliation from suspects or corrupt insiders.
The Immigration & Documentation Debate
The backlash has reignited discussions around illegal immigration and the importance of proper documentation in South Africa.
When suspects are undocumented or using false identities:
- Police struggle to track their movements.
- Criminal records can’t be accurately verified.
- Border crossings become easier to evade.
- Prosecutions may be delayed or fail due to uncertain identity.
Community activists argue that better border control and national documentation systems would make cases like Moyo’s easier to solve.
Why It Matters for Law Enforcement
Proper documentation is more than a political talking point it’s an operational necessity for policing. Without confirmed identities, investigations slow down, court cases collapse, and fugitives can disappear across provincial or national borders undetected.
The Risks of Non-Cooperation
While withholding help might feel like a justified protest to some, the decision comes with consequences:
Extended danger: An armed fugitive could harm more people.
Undermined justice: The longer a suspect remains free, the harder it is to secure evidence and witnesses.
Deepening distrust: A lack of cooperation reinforces the cycle of suspicion between SAPS and the public.
Can SAPS Win Back Trust?
Experts say SAPS must take bold steps to repair the fractured relationship with communities, including:
- Transparency in investigations and internal discipline.
- Accountability for misconduct.
- Community policing that prioritises partnership over confrontation.
- Acknowledging public concerns about immigration and safety.
Without these changes, public cooperation will continue to decline even in serious cases like this.
A Defining Moment
The hunt for Jabulani Thang Moyo is more than a criminal investigation it’s a test of whether SAPS can still count on the people it serves.
If Moyo is caught quickly, SAPS will call it a win. But unless deeper trust issues are addressed, the refrain of “Go find him yourselves” could echo for years to come.
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