A security guard has been seriously wounded in a shootout between two security companies at the offices of the Ditsobotla Local Municipality in Lichtenburg, in the North West.

It appears that a newly appointed security company, contracted by the municipality, arrived to assume their duties when a confrontation erupted with the existing security team already guarding the building. 

Provincial police spokesperson Adele Myburgh says a case has been opened and investigations are underway.

Authorities are probing charges of attempted murder, trespassing, malicious damage to property, and the unlawful discharge of a firearm.