Another police officer killed in line of duty
A police officer and a private security guard were killed in Mbazwana in northern KwaZulu-Natal when they confronted a suspect wanted for a string of carjackings, police said on Thursday.
Police spokesman Jay Naicker said the officer, two security guards, and residents of the area went to Mbazwana after they received a tip-off that the hijacking suspect was hiding in a house in the area.
“When they approached the suspect’s house he opened fire on the group fatally wounding the 28-year-old police official and a 40-year-old security officer,” Naicker said.
“A second security officer sustained gunshot wounds to the thigh and was taken to hospital for medical attention where he is reported to be in a critical, but stable condition.”
The suspect fled the scene in the police vehicle after robbing the officer and security guards of their firearms.
“The vehicle was found burnt 10 kilometres away from the crime scene. Charges of murder, attempted murder, malicious damage to property and theft of firearm are being investigated.”
KwaZulu-Natal provincial police commissioner, Mmamonnye Ngobeni, condemned the murders.
“We wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the deceased member’s family and loved ones,” she said.
“We are confident that the case will be investigated meticulously and the suspect brought to book. He not only robbed us of a colleague, but also robbed the country of a crime fighter.”
Photo: Gallo