NELSPRUIT - Two suspects, aged 23 and 29 were arrested after allegedly shooting a security guard on duty at a certain School in Hazyview. The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, 02 February 2023 however the two were nabbed at one of the local taverns in Shabalala a day after the incident (03 February 2023).

According to the report at police disposal, three armed suspects stormed into a High School in Sand River near Hazyview. They reportedly found a security guard on duty and held him at gunpoint and demanded for a firearm. When the guard informed his assailants that he was not in possession of a firearm, they shot him. The report further states that nothing was stolen from the school during this incident.

The matter was reported to the authorities and the guard was taken to hospital for medical treatment. Meanwhile Police in Hazyview began with their investigation of an attempted murder case and received a tip-off from members of the community on the whereabouts of two of the three suspects. The members immediately operationalized the information and it is further reported that the suspects attempted to shoot at the police during the time of their arrest.

Both suspects were shot and injured. Upon their arrest, a firearm and ammunition were confiscated. The firearm's serial number was filled off. The arrested suspects are currently under police guard in hospital and will soon appear in court. Police are still searching for the third suspect, arrest is imminent. Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) will conduct further investigation surrounding the shooting of the two suspects.

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has commended the healthy relationship between the community members and police in the area. The General also applauded members for their dedication and successful encounter even though the situation was dangerous and life threatening.

Source: South African Police Service