The Mpumalanga police have raised their concerns about the attacks allegedly targeted at police officials, which have also led to the brutal murder of a warrant officer, Siyaphi Msiza, stationed in KwaMhlanga on Tuesday October 4. Two men allegedly stabbed him.

No arrests have been made yet.

Within two days, the police announced another attack in Hendrina on Thursday, October 6, in which a constable sustained a gunshot wound.

“The police received a tip-off about four suspicious-looking people who were in a park behind the post office in Hendrina. They then headed to the location to investigate. It is said that immediately, the people ran in different directions when they saw the police,” said a provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala.

The police pursued them. One of the suspects reportedly took out a firearm and started shooting at them. The constable was grazed by a bullet on his leg and the police vehicle was riddled with bullets,” Mohlala said.

He said that the police and community members managed to arrest one of the suspects, who is said to be from eMalahleni.

“The suspect was found in possession of a firearm with the serial number filled off, as well as 11 rounds of live ammunition. The suspect was charged with attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm with ammunition, however, the police cannot rule out the possibility of adding other charges against him.”

The suspect is expected to make his first appearance in the Hendrina Magistrate’s Court today (October 7).

Mohlala appealed to anyone who might have information about the incident, to contact Detective Sergeant Refelwe Baloyi on 071 623 1012.

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To provide information related to Msiza’s murder, contact the KwaMhlanga station commander, Detective Colonel Alex Mahlahlane, on 082 318 9865.

Alternatively, call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or send information via the My SAPS app for both cases. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.

The provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, has condemned the attacks and urged the public to help to apprehend the suspects.

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“Attacking of police officials is a direct attack to the state, and a team consisting of investigators will probe and ensure that the perpetrators are soon brought to book,” she said.

Manamela also sent her condolences to the family of the slain police officer.