NELSPRUIT - The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly called for liquor business owners to operate within the ambits of the law and also make it a point that their patrons are not armed whenever they come for leisure at their premises. The sentiment by the General comes amidst a disturbing incident in which an armed man reportedly went on rampage at a certain tavern near Hazyview where he allegedly shot three people, one died on the spot meanwhile the other two were taken to hospital after sustaining some injuries. The incident is said to have taken place in the early hours of Monday, 04 April 2022.
The report indicates that a scuffle broke out between four men in a tavern at Shabalala Trust (Hazyview area) around 06h30 am. One of the men is said to have then fired some shots at the three men as well as torched two vehicles, a VW Golf and an Isuzu bakkie before he fled the scene. As a result, one succumbed to his injuries whilst two victims sustained gunshot wounds and they were taken for medical treatment in hospital.
Police opened a murder case with two counts of attempted murder and arson. A manhunt has since been launched for the suspect. Part of the investigation will be to determine whether the owner of the liquor outlet was operating lawfully or not.
Police however, urge anyone with information on the whereabouts of the suspect to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
Meanwhile the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela warned owners of businesses, specifically those of liquor outlets to take responsibility and play their part in ensuring safety for their customers. "There are regulations put in place for liquor businesses and these controlling measures should be adhered to by all operators in order to prevent similar incidents like these. Be as it may, the law should take its course" said the General.
Source: South African Police Service