Police in the Eastern Cape have launched a manhunt for four suspects who shot and killed a prosecutor on Thursday afternoon.
Tracy Brown, a regional court prosecutor, was gunned down in broad daylight in Algoa Park in Gqeberha at about 3.30 pm.
Provincial police spokesperson, Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg, said the prosecutor was shot just outside her home.
Tracy Brown
“A female public prosecutor arrived home in Lotton Street, Young Park. While still seated in her vehicle, a Toyota Etios, four unknown suspects wearing masks stopped with a white VW Polo in the street, they got out of the vehicle, and multiple shots were fired at her vehicle,” Janse Van Rensburg said.
Brown was rushed to the hospital after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds. She was declared dead on arrival.
“The motive and the suspects are unknown, and the investigation is ongoing,” Janse van Rensburg said.
National spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga, has condemned the brutal murder.
“Tracy Brown was shot assassination-style by four armed men in front of her house in Gqeberha, in the presence of her partner and minor child. The motive for Ms Brown’s senseless killing is unknown. Her murder is an attack on the rule of law and our tireless efforts to hold criminals accountable.
“The NPA, together with law enforcement, will spare no effort in ensuring that the perpetrators of this brutal murder are brought to justice,” Mhaga said.
He said the recent killings of prosecutors who put their lives on the line every day in the pursuit of justice is deeply disturbing.
This murder follows the killing of another prosecutor, Elona Sombulula, from the Engcobo Magistrates Court in April this year.
“Our prosecutors take on their duties with courage and a deep commitment to serving the people, often at great personal risk. To target those who dedicate their lives to upholding the law is to strike at the heart of our constitutional democracy.
“We will not be deterred in our resolve to deliver on our mandate to ensure justice for the people of our country. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Ms Brown’s family, friends, and colleagues at this sad and difficult time,” Mhaga said.
Police have urged anyone with information that can assist the investigation to the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Errol Kleinhans at 083 243 4567, or Crime Stop at 08600 1011 or the nearest police station. Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via MySAPS App. All information is confidential, and callers may remain anonymous.
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