WHAT started as a simple chore of fetching water from the Mfolozi River, resulted in a fatal shootout between two policemen at 10.30pm on Friday night.
Two men were getting water from the river when they were confronted and threatened by a group of people from the community. The angry mob demanded an explanation for why they were taking water from the river.
One of the men in the group pointed a firearm at them, but they managed to get into their truck, lock the vehicle and speed off.
At a safe distance, the truck driver phoned his employer who arrived at the river accompanied by KwaMsane police officer, Constable Bongumusa Dube.
The armed man again drew his gun – this time firing four shots at the policeman.
Constable Dube returned fire and fatally hit the shooter once in the chest.
He died on the scene and was later identified as 41-year-old Sergeant Bongumusa Hector Khumalo of the KwaMbonambi SAPS.
KwaMsane SAPS has opened an inquest docket as well as Pointing of a Firearm, Attempted Murder and Murder cases for investigation.
All the cases have been transferred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).
No arrests have yet been made as the investigation continues, but no foul play is suspected.
