Two Nelspruit police officers robbed and assaulted near i’langa Mall
The two police members were effecting the arrest of three male suspects in a red VW Polo on the evening of Wednesday March 23, when the suspects fired shots at them, assaulted and robbed them of their service pistols.
Two Nelspruit police officers were assaulted an robbed near i’langa Mall on Wednesday night, March 23. Provincial police spokesperson, Brig Selvy Mohlala, said that the two officers, a sergeant and a constable were patrolling near the mall when they noticed a suspicious-looking red VW Polo without a rear number plate.
“They said car was occupied by three males. Police then pulled the vehicle over and began a search,” said Mohlala. He said that during the search the officers noticed the driver of the Polo was drinking alcohol. The suspects allegedly tried to bribe the officers but the members refused.
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“As the members were busy effecting an arrest, one of the suspects reportedly fired a shot at one of the officers,” he said. Mohlala said the officer managed to dodge the shot and fell to the ground.
“While the member was on the ground, the suspects assaulted him and robbed him of his 9mm service pistol with ammunition, as well as a cellphone. “They then turned and attacked the other officer, who also sustained some injuries,” said Mohlala. “The suspects also took a service pistol with ammunition from the second officer and fled the scene.”
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More police officers then arrived at the scene and a cases of armed robbery and attempted murder were opened. The two officers were taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
“A 72-hour plan has been activated to trace the suspects and police are adamant that an arrest will be made soon.
Provincial police commissionerl, Lt Gen Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, sent a stern warning to those who disrespect officers of the law following the incident.
