Seven arrested in Lydenburg over alleged tender-related attack on businessman

Mpumalanga police arrested seven suspects in Lydenburg after foiling an attack plot and responding to threats made against a local businessman, a police officer, and a councillor over a tender dispute.

The seven suspects, aged between 30 and 59, were arrested on various charges, including attempted murder. The Lydenburg police are also looking into claims that a Gauteng businessman threatened to attack a police station.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said a local businessman allegedly received threats in the early hours of Tuesday from the Gauteng businessman. The complainant was told that he will be killed because he is a “stumbling block” in the way of the Gauteng businessman getting tenders around Lydenburg.

Tender dispute turns violent in Lydenburg

A Lydenburg South African Police Service (Saps) police officer also received death threats from the same suspect. The Gauteng businessman allegedly threatened to attack the Lydenburg police station and said the police officer’s life will not be spared because the local businessman reported the death threats and intimidation to him.

Ndubane said that later the same evening, around 6pm, about five vehicles carrying armed suspects stormed into the home of a local councillor. Fortunately, no one was home at the time.

“It is also reported that the armed group proceeded to the residential place of the complainant (businessman), and upon arrival, it is alleged that they forcefully gained entry,” Ndubane said.

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“An exchange of gunfire then ensued between the armed suspects and the complainant who was assisted by security guards from various security companies.”

After receiving information about the incident, Lydenburg police officers arrived at the scene and apprehended seven suspects. Police are guarding one suspect in hospital as he receives treatment for minor injuries sustained at the scene.

Police found eight assault handguns, one assault rifle, and more than 400 rounds of ammunition in three of the suspects’ vehicles.

More charges likely to be added

As the police investigation continues, more charges against the suspects are likely to be added. The suspects are expected to appear at the Lydenburg Magistrate’s Court soon.

The Mpumalanga acting commissioner of the police, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the security guards and the men and women in blue for their swift response that led to the arrest of the seven suspects.

“The action by the law enforcement agencies is a testament that we cannot allow anarchy and lawlessness to prevail. Those who engage in such behaviour will have to face the consequences, and the law will have to take its course,” warned the general.

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