Police officer killed in deadly Limpopo mine shooting
Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the deceased was a 40-year-old police officer stationed in Gauteng.
A Gauteng police officer was one of two men killed during a violent confrontation at a mine in Limpopo, prompting police to launch a manhunt for the armed suspects responsible for the fatal shooting.
Police in Driekop have opened two murder cases following the incident at a mine in Ga-Mahlokwane village, near Khubetshane, on Tuesday.
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According to Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the dispute began on Friday when a group of men visited the mine requesting a meeting with the owner.
The group allegedly claimed to have a court order instructing the owner to halt mining operations and further alleged that they held shares in the mine.
“Upon arrival, the victims found two security guards on duty and instructed them to contact the owner,” said Mashaba.
The security guards reportedly contacted their office, but the owner did not arrive, and they left the premises.
Dispute turns deadly
Mashaba said the group returned to the mine on Tuesday and again requested that the owner be contacted.
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“They once more requested that the owner be contacted and were told not to go anywhere while waiting,” Mashaba said.
It is alleged that while they were still on the mine premises, several motor vehicles arrived and the occupants got out and confronted them, resulting in a physical altercation.
“During the fight, one of the male victims was fatally shot at the scene. The second victim sustained injuries and managed to run for help. He was taken to a medical facility but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries upon arrival.”
Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the deceased was a 40-year-old police officer stationed in Gauteng.
Police have since opened two murder cases, while a manhunt for the unknown suspects is underway.
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Police condemn killing
Acting Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Major General Jan Scheepers said every available resource had been deployed to track down those responsible.
We are shocked and deeply saddened by this incident, which has resulted in one of our own losing his life.
“We condemn this act of violence in the strongest possible terms. All available resources have been mobilised to ensure the speedy apprehension of the perpetrators,” said Scheepers.
Police have appealed to anyone with information to contact Major General Venetia Masingi on 082 040 6751, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, their nearest police station or submit information via the MySAPS App.
Investigations are continuing.
