An intense investigation is underway in Giyani after a 37-year-old police sergeant shot and killed one person while injuring three others at a tavern in N’wadzekudzeku village. The incident occurred around 0.30 am on Friday, prompting the activation of a thorough investigation by local authorities.
Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the police spokesperson in Limpopo, revealed that officers responded to a report of a shooting incident, discovering four individuals with gunshot wounds upon arrival. Emergency personnel confirmed the death of one victim at the scene, while the remaining three were transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.
The preliminary information suggests that the 37-year-old police sergeant engaged in a heated argument with patrons, including the deceased and his friends. Subsequently, the officer pulled out a firearm and fired several shots at the individuals involved. Attempting to apprehend the suspect, some customers were met with random gunfire before the sergeant fled the scene.
The deceased, identified as 26-year-old Smangaliso Hlungwani from N’wadzekudzeku village, lost his life during the incident. Further investigation revealed that the suspect returned to his residence in the same village and took his own life using the firearm.
The police sergeant, identified as Sukani Page Khosa, 37, was attached to the SA Police Service (SAPS) Mopani district office. Authorities have opened a case comprising charges of murder, three counts of attempted murder, and an inquest.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Limpopo, condemned the incident, describing it as unexpected and emphasizing the need for law enforcement officers to conduct themselves appropriately. The investigation is ongoing as authorities seek to unravel the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.