By Teboho Moloi
HENNENMAN – A devastating shooting spree involving an on-duty police officer has left three people dead, two others injured, and a community in shock after the officer allegedly turned the gun on himself in Hennenman on Sunday, 7 June.
he Free State police have confirmed that three counts of murder, one count of attempted murder, and an inquest docket have been opened following the tragedy. The matter is being investigated by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).
According to police, the 47-year-old South African Police Service (SAPS) member allegedly embarked on a deadly search for his girlfriend after failing to find her at what was believed to be a family gathering.
Free State police spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo said the officer initially drove to Whites Plot near Hennenman looking for his girlfriend.
After failing to locate her, he was accompanied by the woman’s uncle to another venue where several family members were attending an event.
Upon arrival, the officer was reportedly informed that his girlfriend was not at the gathering. An argument allegedly broke out, culminating in the officer opening fire on those present.
“During the incident, the member allegedly shot and killed three people – the girlfriend’s mother, her uncle, and the 25-year-old girlfriend. Two additional victims sustained gunshot wounds. One was transported to hospital for medical treatment, while the other suffered a graze wound and was treated at the scene,” said Mbambo.
Police said the officer then returned to his vehicle, where he allegedly turned the firearm on himself and died at the scene.The shocking incident has drawn widespread condemnation from SAPS leadership.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Thabang Lesia described the killings as a “disturbing and senseless tragedy” that has left multiple families devastated.
“While the circumstances surrounding this incident remain under investigation, there can be no justification for such conduct. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives and wish the injured victims a speedy recovery,” said Lesia.
“We remain committed to accountability and to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and integrity among our members.”
IPID investigators have taken over the case as authorities work to establish the full circumstances that led to the deadly shooting.
2 Responses
This is a very treble shoking situation I never knew in this sector. This guy is thinks he was having some issues with his girlfriend joo hai .I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who are involved and affected 🙏 💔
The poor police officers are working hard and at the end of the day, there is no psychological services rendered to them. Will have a pressure at work to meet a target, money is not enough to cover family costs, exposed to traumatized situation.