PROVINCIAL COMMISSIONER CONDEMNS THE ATTACK OF MEMBERS, MANHUNT LAUNCHED FOR SUSPECTS
Nelspruit – 24 March 2022: The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has strongly condemned the attack of 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.
The police report indicates that on the said day, the two police officers, a Sergeant and a Constable were busy patrolling and they noticed a suspicious red VW Polo without a rear number plate. The said car was occupied by three males inside. They then pulled the vehicle over 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 tried to bribe the members but the members refused.
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As the members were busy effecting an arrest, one of the suspects reportedly fired a shot towards one member however the member ducked and was missed by the bullet. 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 meanwhile the members were taken to the 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.
Police are urging anyone with information to call the Crime Stop number on 0860010111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
