Lolitha Kowa murder reveals police resource issues

CLAIMS have emerged that the detective investigating the murder of seven-year-old Lolitha Kowa does not have access to an SAPS vehicle, a situation highlighted by the DA's Nicholas Gotsell.

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

Gotsell MP, DA NCOP Member on Security & Justice said services and infrastructure within the police, failed communities, such as the 10111 call centre, training for new K9 unit dogs and transparency on the ongoing vehicle fleets.

Police sniffer dogs had led cops to the scene of Kowa's murder, where blood stains were found on a mop and on the floor.

“SAPS is failing Western Cape families, and it’s costing lives,” said Gotsell.

“On Friday, July 25, I stood in court watching the suspects accused of murdering 7-year-old Lolitha from Khayelitsha. It was heartbreaking. SAPS had done incredible work finding her body and key evidence - thanks to one of the only biological fluid dogs in the metro.

“However, shockingly, the investigating officer in her case doesn't even have a vehicle.