Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene, has reiterated that the SAPS will not tolerate acts of violence against those who serve and protect.
According to police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, it is alleged that on Sunday evening, November 12, at about 23:00, SAPS Kwazakele members were on their way to a complaint when they were stopped by community members in Kubo Street, Zwide, informing them of a robbery in progress at the local tavern.
“As police arrived, the suspects, who were getting into a hijacked vehicle, started firing shots at them.
“The members returned fire, and the suspects retreated and ran away,” said Naidu.
“One suspect, about 25 years old, succumbed to gunshot wounds at the scene.
“The police sergeant, aged 31 years old, sustained gunshot wounds to his leg and fingers, and was taken to hospital and is in a stable condition.
“A 9mm firearm, a cellphone and the stolen alcohol were recovered in the vehicle,” Naidu added.
Naidu further added, “The vehicle, a Ford Eco, was hijacked by one of the patrons from the tavern.
Cases of business robbery, vehicle hijacking, attempted murder; for the attack on a police member, and an inquest docket was opened for further investigation.”
Lt. General Mene extended her well wishes for the swift recovery of the injured Sergeant.
“The bravery of the attending officers in the line of duty is commendable. We are warning criminals that any acts of violence, especially on attacks on our police officials, will be met with swift and decisive action. Law enforcement is committed to ensuring public safety and will not tolerate criminality against officers or the community,” warned Mene.
