Semi-automatic rifles and 104 bullets: Security officers arrested for attacking motorist
Four security officers employed by a private security company have been arrested in Mpumalanga for attempted murder, malicious damage to property, and intimidation after they allegedly attacked a motorist at Nhlazatshe Crossing in Elukwatini earlier this week.
Provincial police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe, said the incident took place on Monday, when the officers stopped a vehicle driven by a man and demanded to search it. When the driver refused, an argument broke out between him and the security officers.
It is alleged that the four security officers then began pelting the man’s vehicle with stones before firing several shots in his direction. The driver managed to escape the scene unharmed and reported the matter to the police, who immediately launched a manhunt for the suspects.
Police later arrested the four men — identified as Phumlani Muzi Nene, 31, Mongameli Xaba, 29, Mhlengu Shange, 32, and Siyabonga Zondo, 29 — on the same day.
During the arrest, Nonyane-Mpe said police seized four firearms, which included two semi-automatic rifles, a shotgun, and a pistol, along with 104 rounds of live ammunition.
Police said the swift arrests were the result of coordinated work between various units within the SAPS.
“The members acted promptly upon receiving the complaint and managed to locate and arrest the suspects within hours of the incident,” said Nonyane-Mpe.
The four suspects appeared before the Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where they were remanded in custody. They were remanded in custody and are expected to return to court on 12 November for a formal bail application.
Acting provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has commended the arresting officers for their commitment to fighting crime and ensuring accountability, regardless of a suspect’s occupation.
“We appreciate the members for their unwavering dedication and commitment in ensuring that those who break the law face the consequences of their actions,” said Mkhwanazi.
“No one is above the law, and we will not hesitate to act against anyone who uses their position or uniform to intimidate or harm members of the community,” he added.
The police have reiterated their call for private security companies to ensure that their personnel operate within the boundaries of the law, adding that any abuse of power will not be tolerated.
Investigations into the incident are continuing.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
IOL News