A 59-year-old man has been arrested for murder following a shooting incident in Vredefort on Friday at approximately 05:15.

According to police spokesperson, Sergeant Josephine Rani, Vredefort SAPS attended to a complaint of a shooting at Turten Street. Upon arrival, the police found a 59-year-old male, who pointed to the deceased, a 53-year-old male, lying on the ground with gunshot wounds.

According to Rani, the man employed by a private security company, allegedly apprehended the deceased for stealing copper. She says a struggle ensued, and the man further alleged that the deceased attempted to disarm him, resulting in the fatal shooting.

Preliminary investigation has revealed that the deceased is working for another security company.

Rani said the man arrested is expected to appear before the Vredefort Magistrate’s Court on a charge of murder.