GQEBERHA | MOTHERWELL COP KILLER CAUGHT AFTER TAXI SHOOTOUT WITH POLICE

The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola has commended the swift response of the Eastern Cape’s Anti-Gang unit for apprehending a man who shot and killed a 42-year-old Sergeant who was serving as a court orderly at the Motherwell Magistrate Court in Gqeberha this morning.

According to the police’s preliminary investigation, the arrested suspect entered the Motherwell Court building at about 09:20, disarmed the member, shot and killed him with the state firearm and thereafter fled on foot.

Members of the Anti-Gang unit who were patrolling the area immediately responded and were alerted by a taxi driver that the suspect who was possession of the firearm was in the taxi. 

The suspect immediately opened fire at the police and members returned fire. 

The suspect sustained gunshot wounds and was transported to hospital under police guard. 

Police also recovered the member’s state firearm. 

Commuters who were in the taxi at the time were not injured during the cross fire.

At the time of his death, the member had 16 years’ service.

“We cannot have a situation where members are killed in a court of law and while responding to the call of duty. Our condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of our fallen heroes. The SAPS continues to prioritise acquiring of additional resources and equipment to heighten police response to fight serious and violent crime, “said General Fannie Masemola.

SAPS