Off-duty police officer allegedly behind New Year’s shooting

AN off-duty police officer was allegedly involved in a shooting incident in the outfield of Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium during a New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31.

In a statement, The Sharks reported that an off-duty officer opened fire when a security officer attempted to escort him out of the party. The security officer sustained minor injuries to his leg, and the bullet ricocheted, striking another patron in their leg.

“Unfortunately, with 20 minutes to go to the New Year, there was an isolated incident involving an off-duty police officer, who was attending the game as a patron, and a member of our security personnel. In the process of our security escorting this patron off the premises due to his unruly conduct, the individual concerned drew his firearm and discharged a round which struck the security officer’s leg,” said Novashni Chetty, marketing and PR manager for The Sharks.

Speaking to Berea Mail, Colonel Robert Netshiunda of the SAPS confirmed that an off-duty officer was arrested.

“Police in Durban Central have arrested a man for attempted murder following an incident where the suspect reportedly shot and injured two people at the Kings Park Rugby Stadium just before midnight on Saturday, December 31. Circumstances that led to the shooting form part of police investigations,” he said.

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Chetty added that the bullet ricocheted and struck another patron.

“Both individuals were treated on-site and taken to hospital, and both are in a stable condition. We are in constant contact with the injured gentlemen and wish them both a speedy recovery,” she said.

“It must be emphasised that the incident took place on the outer fields and did not take place in the main stadium complex, where weapon control is strictly monitored by our security personnel at all times. The Sharks place great emphasis on providing our fans and their families with a fun and safe environment, and we are saddened by this isolated incident, which we condemn in the strongest terms, as it was irresponsible, unnecessary and unwarranted,” concluded Chetty.