Johannesburg – Moipone Mhlongo – the youngest Gauteng Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL) and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Education – is recovering after a hijacking.
MPL Mhlongo was tragically hijacked and abducted on Monday, (2 September 2024), at Etwatwa in Ekurhuleni under circumstances that remain unclear.
She was found safe on the same day after enduring an extremely traumatic ordeal with senseless criminals.
Commenting on the hijacking on Tuesday, (3 September 2024), the Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety said it has learned with deep concern about the kidnapping of MPL Mhlongo.
The Committee said in a statement it “remains relieved that Hon. Mhlongo was found safe on the same day after enduring an extremely traumatic ordeal with senseless criminals.
“The Committee would like to express its gratitude to law enforcement agencies, security personnel, and everyone who contributed towards her safe return.
“Their swift and tireless efforts were instrumental in bringing this traumatic event to a peaceful conclusion.”
The Committee thanked members of the public who upon learning about this ordeal, shared details of this incident on their various social media platforms to ensure that every possible effort is made to locate her and bring her home safely to her family.
“The Committee wishes Hon. Mhlongo well as she recovers from this traumatic experience and would like to see her back in action as she continues her vital work as an MPL and serving the people of Gauteng,” said the statement.
“While the Committee is immensely relieved by Hon. Mhlongo’s safe return, it remains deeply concerned about the broader implications of such heinous acts of criminality.”
The Committee added: “Acts of violence and intimidation have no place in our society and law enforcement agencies should not be deterred in their pursuit of justice and peace.
“The unprecedented rise in violent crimes, including extortion, armed robberies, and hijackings continues to create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity that can no longer be ignored in our communities.
“At times like this, decisive action is required to restore law and order, protect lives, and prevent further deterioration of safety across various communities.”
