The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has strongly condemned the recent tragic murder of a medical doctor in Dobsonville, Soweto.
Well-known Dr Michael Isabelle was tragically shot during an armed robbery at his medical facility and succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital on Saturday.
“It is deeply troubling that he lost his life simply for refusing to surrender his laptop and phones to the suspects,” the committee said.
The committee has described the incident as utterly unacceptable and regrettable.
“This heartbreaking incident serves as a sad reminder of the pervasive violence that plagues our communities, with innocent individuals bearing the brunt of heinous crimes.
“Despite concerted efforts by government and civil society to combat crime in Gauteng and across the nation, criminals continue to wreak havoc and instill fear among South Africans.”
The committee has urgently called upon law enforcement agencies to swiftly apprehend those responsible for this senseless act of violence and ensure that they are brought to justice.
“It is imperative that we send a resounding message that senseless crimes of this nature have no place in our society and that perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.”
The committee also extended its heartfelt condolences to Isabelle’s family.
“We stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time and recognise doctors’ invaluable role in saving lives and providing essential medical care to those in need.
“We urge the entire nation to unite in condemning violence and reaffirming our commitment to building safer communities for all.”
According to TimesLive Premium, Isabelle was also attacked and shot in the stomach soon after he qualified in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, 20 years ago.
A family spokesperson who spoke to the publication said Isabelle was a jazz lover, who was generous and principled with an uncompromising work ethic.
