EThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, has made a heartfelt plea to Umlazi residents to assist police with any information regarding the shooting of a municipal employee.
The victim, Welcome Memela, a plumber in the Water and Sanitation Unit, was attacked by an unknown assailant after completing maintenance work on a water valve at Umlazi’s F Section Reservoir on Monday. He is currently recovering in hospital after sustaining gunshot wounds.
During a hospital visit today, Mayor Xaba wished Memela a speedy recovery. “We condemn this senseless act of violence against a dedicated municipal worker. I call on anyone who may have witnessed this incident to come forward and assist the police in ensuring that the perpetrator faces the full wrath of the law,” said Mayor Xaba.
The mayor emphasized that such incidents threaten the morale and safety of municipal employees, ultimately impacting service delivery to communities. “Our workers cannot perform their duties effectively if they feel constantly under siege,” he said.
Mayor Xaba further urged residents to play a proactive role in safeguarding municipal infrastructure. He highlighted the damaging effects of theft and vandalism on water and electricity facilities, which disrupt essential services.
Authorities are continuing their investigation, and anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact their local police station.
Picture:Supplied