NELSPRUIT – The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly condemned the attack on two members from Nelspruit SAPS on Wednesday night, 23 March 2022 near Ilanga Mall in Nelspruit. Further than that, the members were robbed of their two service firearms. A manhunt has since been launched for the suspects.
Police report indicates that on the said day, the two police officers, a Sergeant and a Constable were busy patrolling when they noticed a suspicious red VW Polo without a rear number plate. The said car was occupied by three males. They then pulled over the vehicle and began a search. During the search, it is said that the members noticed that the driver was busy consuming liquor inside the vehicle. It is said that the suspects attempted to bribe the members but the members refused.
As the members were busy effecting an arrest, one of the suspects reportedly fired a shot barely missing the other member. Whilst the said member was on the ground, the suspects reportedly assaulted him and robbed him of his 9mm service pistol with ammunition as well as a cellphone. They then turned and attacked the crew, who also sustained some injuries. The suspects also took a service pistol with ammunition from the member and fled the scene.
Other members were alerted and a case of armed robbery with a count of attempted murder was then opened. The members were taken to hospital for medical treatment after they sustained some injuries. A 72-hour Activation Plan has been activated to trace the suspects and police are adamant that an arrest will be made soon.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela further sent a stern warning to those who disrespect officers of the law. “We wish a speedy recovery to the injured members. At the same time we will never allow anyone to undermine any law enforcement officer in our country. Those suspects must be hunted down and be brought to book. We will not rest until all of them are put behind bars,” said the General.
Source: South African Police Service