A 26-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the armed robbery and attempted murder of an off-duty police officer in Mashishing village in Limpopo on January 14.

According to police reports, the off-duty officer, stationed at Burgersfort, was parked near the library gardens when five armed men approached him.

According to an article published by Polokwane Review, the suspects allegedly opened fire, hitting the officer in the upper body. When he got out of his vehicle to defend himself, he was shot again in the lower body and left unconscious.

The suspects fled the scene with the officer’s service pistol and two cellphones.

A passer-by discovered the injured officer and alerted emergency medical services. He was rushed to a local hospital for treatment.

In an early morning operation on Wednesday, a joint team comprising the Nebo Visible Policing Unit and the Jane Furse Tracking Team apprehended a suspect in Madibong village.

The suspect led police to his home, where he voluntarily handed over the stolen firearm and ammunition. The police are searching for the remaining suspects.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng urges the public to assist with any information that could lead to further arrests. The public can contact investigating officer Captain Fana Mkhwanazi on 082 319 9526, Crime Stop on 086 001 0111 or their closest police station. The MySAPS app can also be used for anonymous tips.

The arrested suspect was due to appear in the Nebo Magistrate’s Court today on charges of armed robbery and attempted murder. The outcome of his appearance is not yet known.

Police investigations are ongoing.