A 42-year-old suspect has been arrested for attempted murder in Parys after an exchange of fire between copper cable suspects and the police.

The incident happened on Sunday, 26 February at about 01:05 in the industrial area of Parys.
The Fezile Dabi District Trio Task Team and DOCC members received information of copper cable theft in progress at King Street, Parys. According to police spokesperson, sgt Josephine Rani, the members responded swiftly. Upon their arrival at the scene, the police officers noticed one suspect armed with a rifle. He started to shoot at the police. The members retaliated and four unknown suspects managed to flee the scene on foot, sgt Rani said.

Sergeant Morena Semase, a member of DOCC was wounded in the right shoulder during the incident. He was transported to Alberton Netcare for medical treatment.

The arrested suspect was also wounded on the buttocks. He was taken to Parys Hospital for medical treatment and later detained.

The suspect will appear before the Parys Magistrate Court on Tuesday, 28 February 2023 on charges of attempted
murder and for being an illegal immigrant.