Middleburg – The police are appealing for information about a shooting on Stoffberg Road involving suspected fuel thieves who were travelling in a yellow diesel tanker.
Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi said the wanted suspects shot and wounded a police officer, who has since succumbed to his injuries.
The police have launched a manhunt for the suspects.
Recounting events leading to the shooting, Captain Sekgotodi said: “In the early hours of Monday, (3 March 2023), a member from Crime Intelligence Middleburg received a tip-off from an informer regarding the theft of diesel at a mine, near the N4”.
Captain Sekgotodi added: “The member contacted his colleague from Middleburg Detective Services, and they drove together in the state vehicle, a white Toyota Hilux double cab, using the Stoffberg road as directed by the source.
“Along the road, they came across a yellow diesel bowser matching the description and made a U-turn, and stopped it.”
Three male persons alighted from the truck and started shooting at the police officers.
“One member was shot and later succumbed to his injuries while the other sustained serious injuries and was taken to a hospital in Middleburg for treatment,” said Captain Sekgotodi.
Three pistols with 25 rounds of ammunition and five cell phones were recovered at the crime scene.
Mpumalanga Head of the Hawks Major General Gerber has condemned the gruesome attack of the dedicated members.
“He appeals to members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or who may have information to come forward, all information received will be dealt with in strict confidence,” said Captain Sekgotodi.
“It is a sad day when police officers are shot and killed for executing their duties.”
Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the perpetrators can contact the investigation officers on Colonel Nkoana on 071 481 3503 and Captain Maboko on 071 481 3098.
