Shane Cecil Swart (20), appeared at the Blue Downs Magistrates Court on 12 September 2019, in connection with alleged murder and attempted murder charges regarding the shooting incident at Sharp Shooters tavern in Wesbank, Mfuleni on Sunday, 8 September 2019, where a police officer was murdered and another wounded.
Vispol members from Mfuleni SAPS Community Service Centre responded to information at the local tavern about the presence of a suspect that was sought for alleged double murder and hijacking cases.
Two officers searched the premises whilst one remained on guard at the entrance, suddenly shots were fired at the officers from a suspect that was hiding in the toilets, Warrant Officer Hilton Joseph (52) succumbed to a fatal head injury whilst Constable Terrence Mostert (29), sustained neck injuries. The suspect managed to get away following an exchange of gunfire with the police.
Preliminary investigations resulted in the arrest of three suspects by a multidisciplinary team that included the Hawks, Anti-Gang unit and local police, one was eventually released after he couldn’t be linked to the crime.
The second suspect appeared at Bellville Magistrates court on 10 September 2019, and the case against him was withdrawn as he was cleared from all criminal acts. He was only facing a charge of illegal possession of ammunitions and prohibited firearm, following the alleged murder incident.
The Hawks’ National Bureau for Illegal Firearms Control and Priority Violent Crime Unit (NBIFCPVC) has been tasked to further investigate the police murder.
The case against Swart was remanded to 04 December 2019 for further investigation as he abandoned his bail application.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
Police officer gunned down, another critically wounded, Mfuleni
