Pienaar SAPS sergeant attacked by gunmen in Msogwaba
A Pienaar police officer narrowly escaped death following an attack by three men while he was on his way on his way to work.
A 43-year-old Pienaar SAPS sergeant was attacked by three gunmen on his way to work at 05:00 today, May 12.
According to a Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, the attack took place in Tinkhomeni Village in Msogwaba, next to a spaza shop.
“The sergeant was approached by three suspects as he waited for his transport. They pointed a firearm at him. He warned them not to shoot, but one of the suspects fired, fortunately missing the police official. The sergeant retaliated and shot at the gunman,” Mdhluli said.
The suspects fled, though the sergeant could not see where, as it was dark and the power had gone off.
“He called for backup and a search for the suspects ensued. The body of one the attackers was found not far from the scene with a firearm in his hand as well a knife in his pocket. He was certified dead by medical practitioners at the scene. He is not yet identified.”
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The police also discovered an abandoned bag with hearing protection and work suits inside.
Mdhluli said the other two suspects are still at large.
“An attempted murder case is being investigated. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate will be probing the shoot-out,” he said.
It is as yet unclear what the suspects’ motives were.
