The Provincial Commissioner of the Free State SAPS, Lieutenant General Moeketsi Sempe has expressed his dismay at a shooting incident that resulted in the death of an on duty Police Officer in Koffiefontein, and passes his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased member.
On Thursday 10 January at about 23:00, W/O Groenewald from Koffiefontein received information whilst on blue light patrol. The information related to a suspicious vehicle at Dassieskop farm in Koffiefontein district. She realised that the suspicious vehicle belongs to Mr Koen Barnard (36), a neighbouring farmer who had allegedly threatened Mr Paul Nel (60) of the farm Dassieskop previously.
Whilst on her way to investigate the complaint, she called Mr Nel to notify him to be cautious. Whilst talking to him on the phone, she heard noises and Mr Nel`s phone went dead.
She swiftly mobilised other members at the station and on arrival at the farm, Mr Nel`s body was found on the front porch with a gunshot wound to the head. The suspect who was apparently hiding in the bushes at the time, fired shots at the police and Constable Vuyani March (27) was hit on the head and died at the scene whilst Sergeant George Calvert (41) was shot in the face and was rushed to Kimberley hospital for treatment.
The members returned fire and the suspect was shot and died on the way to hospital.
The firearm, a hunting rifle was found at the scene. Three counts of murder and two counts of attempted have been registered for further investigation.
General Sempe has expressed his shock at the news and sends strength to the member who is recovering in hospital. “It is unfortunate that we woke up to such disturbing news of yet another incident in Koffiefontein where one of our members was killed whilst performing their duties. I also want to wish a speedy recovery to the injured member who is admitted in Kimberley hospital”.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
