| 2025/01/26 |
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Media Statement NELSPRUIT – The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has strongly condemned the hostility displayed by some members of the public towards SAPS members. The condemnation by the General stems from an incident that took place in Kinross in the early hours of today, Sunday 26 January 2025. According to a report, two SAPS members came under attack by patrons at a tavern in Kinross area around 03:45 am. It is further outlined that the said Police members were patrolling in Extension 25 when they noticed that a tavern was still open. They entered the tavern and spoke to the owner, who cooperated well with them (Police). As the owner was busy closing the business and asking patrons to leave, the officers were informed that a male individual was damaging the Police van outside. When the officers went to apprehend the suspect, a scuffle broke out and the man attempted to grab a Police firearm. A group of patrons then joined in and attempted to rob the officers of their service firearms. However, the officers managed to prevent the group from obtaining the firearms and called for backup. During the scuffle, a firearm was discharged and one civilian was reportedly shot in the leg. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported among the Police members involved in the incident. The circumstances of the incident are currently under investigation, with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) conducting their own investigation into the shooting incident. No one was been arrested so far with regard to this incident. The windscreen as well as some body parts of the Police van were damaged, including the tyres that were flattened by this uncontrollable group. Meanwhile the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Mkhwanazi commended the bravery and swift response of the SAPS members in bringing the situation under control. He also expressed concern over the hostility and unruly behaviour displayed by some people towards Police members, as this incident comes just a week after another Police vehicle was damaged in Thulamahashe under Mhala Policing Precinct, affecting service delivery to the community. General urged the public to guard against anyone attempting to damage state resources, as these resources are vital for delivering services to the community. Ends
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