Durban – A guard was shot dead, and another seriously wounded during a car hijacking, near King Shaka International Airport Tuesday night.
Medi Response attended to the injured at the crime scene.
“On arrival of crews it was established that two security guards had been conducting perimeter patrols in their vehicle when they were attacked by unknown assailants and their vehicle hijacked,” said Medi Response.
“Both guards were shot multiple times.”
Medi Response added: “One of the guards managed to flag down a passing taxi, which took the man to the airport police station.
“Unfortunately one of the two officers succumbed to his injuries and was declared dead on the scene.”
The second officer was in critical condition and was stabilised by Medi Response and Lenmed advanced life support paramedics.
“Our condolences go out to the affected family,” Medi Response.
Commenting on the fatal shooting Wednesday, Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) said, “a car-hijack incident took place near King Shaka International Airport precinct last night at around 23h00”.
ACSA added: “Armed men hijacked a vehicle driven by the contracted security company after opening fire on the security guards, fatally injuring one.
“Initial information received confirms that a contract security vehicle was hijacked while two security officers were doing patrols.”
However, ACSA said the vehicle, riddled with bullets, has since been recovered in Inanda, Durban, where it had been abandoned.
ACSA CEO Mpumi Mpofu has sent condolences to the family and colleagues of the deceased.
“This is an unfortunate incident and losing a life as a result of such lawlessness is especially painful,” Mpofu said.
“Our prayers and thoughts are with the family of the deceased.
“We will also be working very closely with the South African Police Service and all security agencies operating at the airport to ensure the perpetrators are brought to book”.
