Anam Magqangeni and Busisiwe Mthembu
Authorities have appealed for anyone with information on the shooting of an off-duty Law Enforcement officer to contact the City’s dedicated tip-off line.
The 40-year old officer was shot outside his home in Gugulethu in a reported attempted hijacking on Sunday.
According to the officer’s wife, the attackers fired numerous rounds, two of which hit the officer.
He was transported to hospital where he was in a stable condition.
Police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi said police were investigating a case of attempted murder.
“Gugulethu police responded to a complaint on Sunday. On arrival at the scene in NY 3A, they were informed by community members that the victim was taken to a nearby hospital. At the medical facility they found the 40-year-old man who sustained injuries owing to gunshots. The unknown suspect/s fled the scene and are yet to be arrested,” Swartbooi said.
A Gugulethu resident said the community was shocked by this incident and lives in fear. “Gugulethu has become a playground for criminal activities and most of the people who do these things live within this community,” the resident said.
Mayco member for safety and security JP Smith said the callous attack came just a week after the City’s annual Remembrance Service, and almost a year to the day that another Law Enforcement officer was killed.
“The City will support the police in their investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to book.
“I also want to encourage anyone in the community who knows anything about this incident and the identities of those involved, to please report it to the City’s dedicated tip-off line. We will avail all services and support available through the City’s Employee Assistance Programme to our staff member and his family on the path to recovery,” Smith said.
Anonymous tip-offs can be relayed 24 hours a day at 0800 110077. If the information leads to a successful arrest, the person can receive a reward.
Cape Times