Update, 19 April, 5pm:
Police have launched a manhunt after a security officer was shot and killed just after midnight on 16 April in Marlboro Gardens.
ZSS Reaction Officer, Thembulani Mpini, was shot while responding to a panic alarm at a garage.
Captain Mavela Masondo, the South African Police Service spokesperson, alleged that a group of armed robbers threatened employees at a petrol station and instructed all staff members to remain inside the store. He said they proceeded to bomb the safe and got away with an undisclosed amount of money. As they fled, they hijacked two vehicles and opened fire on Mpini.
At about 1am, Netcare 911 arrived on the scene to attend to the officer who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Sadly, he was declared dead.
David de Villiers from ZSS Security said that Mpini had been with the company for a year but was valued for his hard work and dedication. “He was the most respectable, humble and helpful man you could ever meet.”
De Villiers added that he was loved by all his colleagues and was fondly remembered for always having a smile on his face.
During a counselling session with the employees following the incident, De Villiers said that his colleagues had been hit really hard by the loss of Mpini.
Members of the community have also rallied to assist Mpini’s family.
Andrew McMurray, the Sector 4 chairperson of the Community Policing Forum, said they would be raising additional funds for Mpini’s family following the tragedy. Mpini leaves behind his wife and three children.
A memorial service will be held on 22 April at Zinto Hall from 9.30am to 11.30am. If you would like to contribute, you can contact the Sandton CPF for more details.
Details: Sandton CPF, 011 722 4317.
Do you have any more information about this incident? Share them with us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page
Also read:
UPDATE: Shootout on Grayston Drive
Petrol station robbery leads to shootout
Initial report, 17 April, 2.40pm
Police have launched a manhunt after a security officer was shot and killed just after midnight on 16 April in Marlboro Gardens.
Captain Mavela Masondo, South African Police Service spokesperson, alleged that a group of armed robbers threatened employees at a petrol station and instructed all staff members to remain inside the store. He said they proceeded to bomb the safe and got away with an undisclosed amount of money.
As they fled, they hijacked two vehicles and opened fire on a security officer who was responding to a panic alarm.
At about 1am, Netcare 911 arrived at the scene to attend to the officer who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Sadly, he was declared dead.
Do you have any more details about this incident? Share them with us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page
Also read:
UPDATE: Shootout on Grayston Drive
Petrol station robbery leads to shootout
