Rhodes University has learnt with deep shock and dismay about the cold-hearted murder of the executive protection officer and security aide, Mr Mboneli Vesele, and the assassination attempt on the University of Fort Hare’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sakhela Buhlungu.

Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, sends his condolences to the Vesele family on behalf of the University community.

Rhodes University condemns, in the strongest terms, the barbaric attack and calls on the South African Police Service and the Intelligence community to act swiftly in investigating and bringing the perpetrators to book.

“We note with extreme concern that this is a second attempt on the life of Prof Buhlungu. There have also been other violent attacks on the members of the University of Fort Hare’s top management in the recent past. This cannot be allowed to continue” Prof Mabizela said.

“There seems to be a growing sense of impunity on the part of criminal syndicates in their opposition to anything ethical in our society. Failure to swiftly apprehend the culprits in such instances would create a wrong impression and set a dangerous precedent. This is not how successful societies are created. This must, and has to stop” he said.

“Rhodes University stands in solidarity with the leadership of Fort Hare and all in our society who are confronting the scourge of criminality and corruption, be they individuals or institutions.

We trust that the police will work around the clock to bring the attackers to face the full might of the law. We cannot afford to have this lawlessness go unpunished,” said Prof Mabizela.