The Kagiso Police arrested two Lesotho nationals after a 49-year-old was shot and killed and the community took matters into their own hands.
Kagiso Police spokesperson Captain Solomon Sibiya said two men aged 21 and 25 were arrested on Friday, November 19 at about 15:30.
It is believed that the two men had shot and killed another person and the community tried to apprehend them.
While the sector police were patrolling in Rietvallei Extension 3 in Kagiso they saw community members chasing after the men. One of the men carried a firearm.
The police also gave chase and managed to apprehend them before the community could catch them. The armed man was put under arrest after he was ordered to drop his firearm.”
The angry crowd arrived while the police were trying to arrest the second suspect. The crowd overpowered the two officers and assault one of the suspects. Captain Sibiya said they were using an array of dangerous weapons.
One of the suspects managed to get into the back of the police vehicle and after the police managed to disperse the crowd they rescued the other suspect.
“Twenty eight rounds of ammunition were found in his possession, whereas his accomplice’s recovered firearm was loaded with seven rounds of ammunition.”
The men were then taken to the Kagiso Police Station and the 25-year-old suspect had to be rushed to hospital in a critical condition due to the injuries he sustained when the community assaulted him. He died in hospital the next morning.
The 21-year-old accomplice was detained as both suspects were charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, as well as murder.”
Sibiya said the person who was killed was shot in the head and was declared dead on the scene.
“The motive for the shooting is believed to be related to illegal mining deals.”
The police are investigating the shooting and the firearm has been sent for ballistics tests to determine whether it was used before to commit any similar violent crimes.
Sibiya said the Kagiso Police station commander Brigadier Themba Maduna was impressed with the members’ swift response and bravery. Maduna also condemned the actions of some of the community members for undermining the law and taking it into their own hands, while completely disregarding the presence of the police.
The Kagiso Police are appealing to anyone who knows those responsible for the deadly assault to call them on 011 696 9000, 011 696 9059, 011 696 9059 or 011 696 9067.
Alternatively make use of the Crime Stop line on 08600 10111. The public can also send an SMS to 32211.
