Cop suspected of robbery shot and killed by his commander
The constable is said to have been involved in a Durban North business robbery.
Firearm
A Westville police constable in Durban, stationed at Sydenham police, was shot and killed by his commander after a shootout on Tuesday, Highway Mail reports.
The incident unfolded after the constable was recently arrested for his alleged involvement in a Durban North business robbery.
According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Thembeka Mbhele, two men broke on to business premises on North Coast Road, Durban North, and fled the scene in their getaway vehicle.
“Security guards who were in the vicinity responded and gave chase. The suspects aged 31 and 35 were apprehended and found in possession of stolen property and house break-in implements.
“It was later established that one of the suspects was a police officer stationed at Sydenham police, and was off-duty when the offence was committed. A case of house break-in was opened for investigation at Greenwood Park police,” said Mbhele.
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She said the constable’s commander was contacted, and attended to the incident.
“The commander escorted the suspected police officer, who was handcuffed, to his residence in Westville to seize his firearm. It is alleged that while at the suspect’s house, the 31-year-old constable managed to retrieve his gun and pointed it in the direction of his commander. It is alleged the commander then fired shots in the direction of the constable,” she said.
Acting provincial commissioner Major-General Bheki Langa said he was disturbed by the turn of events.
“We are disappointed to find one of our own police officers being involved in crime and it is sad that he lost his life as a result of his actions. We once again reiterate our commitment to rooting out corrupt elements within the police, and if a police official is suspected of being involved in crime, we will ensure that they do not receive special treatment,” said Langa.
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– Caxton News Service
