THE National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says no sensitive information had been taken during a burglary at its Free State provincial office in Bloemfontein this week.
Four laptops and voice recorders were reported missing after the break-in in the early hours of Monday.
“Even though these criminals managed to break into this central nerve of prosecutions in the province, the citizenry of the republic and the Free State province can rest assured that no sensitive information, dockets, or files were taken as they are not stored in these offices but have a secured area where they are safely secured and kept safe,” NPA regional spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane said in a statement.
The South African Police Service is investigating the break-in and no arrests had been made at the time of going to print.
“A case has been opened with the South African Police Service and a docket has been registered,” Senokoatsane said.
“Members of the community who might have information regarding this matter are encouraged to provide the information to their nearest police stations or Hawks offices in Bloemfontein.”
The agency said it was treating the break-in as an isolated case, saying security was always a priority at its offices.
“The NPA, even though shocked, disturbed and disdained by these cowardly acts, will not be discouraged to continue prosecuting all cases without fear, favour, or prejudice,” Senokoatsane said.
“The security at the NPA offices is taken seriously as these offices always have 24-hour security warm bodies, seven days a week.
“This break-in, which is an isolated case, does not render the security at these important prosecutorial offices as not being taken seriously.”
The NPA is the government agency responsible for state prosecutions. – Staff Reporter