KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner condemns attack on five police officers – SAPS Crime Report: 2021-12-03 11:57:39

South African Police Service

Office of the Provincial Commissioner KwaZulu-Natal

DURBAN – The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has condemned the attacks on five police officers during two separate incidents in the province, one of which resulted in the death of a police officer.

Last night at 23:45, police officers from the Public Order Police conducted an operation in Umlazi to follow up information on people who are in unlawful possession of firearms. They proceeded to Zimeleni Informal Settlement at V Section in Umlazi to follow up on intelligence of a suspect who was in possession of a firearm.

The suspect observed the police officers approaching and opened fire at the police officers. Three police officers were injured as a result and a 29-year-old Constable passed away after being conveyed to hospital. The 44-year-old suspect was fatally wounded in the gun battle that ensued. A revolver with four rounds of ammunition as well as a dagger was seized by police. Charges of murder, attempted murder and inquest were opened for investigation at Umlazi SAPS.

In another incident which occurred yesterday at 15:30, Upper Tugela police officers responded to a report of domestic violence at Dukuza near Bergville. On arrival at the scene they were confronted by the suspect who became very aggressive towards the police officers. The suspect attacked both police officers with a hoe which resulted in one police officer being injured on the head whilst the other was injured in the arm.

The suspect fled the scene, however he was pursued by police. The 29-year-old suspect was placed under arrest on charges of attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The injured police officers were taken to hospital for medical attention.

“We will not be deterred by ruthless criminals who have no respect for the laws of this country. We will continue to execute our constitutional mandate and arrest all those involved in criminal activities. I convey my heartfelt condolences to the family of our fallen police officer who died while executing his duties and I wish those police officers that were injured a speedy recovery,” said Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi.

Join Your Neighbourhood Watch

Enquiries:

Brigadier Jay Naicker

082 556 7865

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService

Report Every Crime

Stamp Out Fraud and Corruption

Be the Eyes and Ears for the SAPS in your Street

#aim4change