NELSPRUIT -The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has expressed her serious concern about criminals who launch attacks on police officials.
Barely two days back, a 57-year-Warrant Officer was stabbed to death in Kwamhlanga, and now another member, a 42-year-old police Constable came under fire while police were attacked by criminals in Hendrina.
According to information, police received a tip-off about four suspicious persons who were in a park behind the post office in Hendrina. Police then headed to the location to investigate. It is said that immediately after the suspicious persons saw police approaching, they reportedly started running into different directions.
Police pursued them, and one of the suspects reportedly took out a firearm and started shooting at the police. One member, a Constable was injured on his leg by a stray bullet while the police vehicle was riddled with bullets. Police never retreated, and in collaboration with the community members, one suspect, aged 34, from Witbank, was arrested. The suspect was found in possession of a firearm with serial numbers filled off as well as eleven rounds of live ammunition. The suspect was charged with attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearm with ammunition however, police cannot rule out the possibility of adding other charges against him.
He is expected to make his first appearance before the Hendrina Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, Friday, 07 October 2022.
Police appeal to anyone who might have information that can lead to the tracing and arrest of the remaining suspects to contact the Detective Sergeant Refelwe Baloyi on 071 623 1012, alternatively members of the public can call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MySAPS App. All information received will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has further applauded the role played by community members which greatly assisted in the apprehension of the suspect as well as the recovery of the firearm and ammunition.
Source: South African Police Service