Pacaltsdorp SAPS has opened an attempted murder docket for investigation following an incident whereby a female Traffic officer was seriously injured after she was disarmed and allegedly shot with her service pistol earlier today. The suspect who is in his early thirties was apprehended within an hour after the incident happened after fleeing on foot.
Preliminary investigation reveals that the traffic officer pulled over a grey Audi A4 vehicle on the bridge in Beach road that crosses the N2 near Pacaltsdorp, George at approximately 09:00 this morning. She approached the vehicle to conduct a routine inspection when the occupant (driver) overpowered and disarmed her by taking her service pistol from her holster. The suspect then fired several shots at her, hitting her in the face. She was later transported to hospital with serious injuries.
Fellow traffic officers and George Law Enforcement officers in close proximity witnessed the ordeal and came to the rescue of the officer. The suspect left his car behind and fled on foot in the direction of the Pacaltsdorp Industrial site along the N2 highway whilst taking several shots at the officers in pursued. Rapid response and vigilance by SAPS specialised units led to the tracing of the suspect that was spotted on the N2 who then diverted to the railway line near the industrial site. A shooting ensued in which the suspect was wounded in his right arm and left knee. Members also found two firearms with loaded magazines in his possession as well as an undisclosed amount of cash.
These firearms were confiscated and will be sent for ballistic tests to determine whether it could have been used in the commission of other or similar criminal offences. The vehicle was also confiscated as evidence. The motive for the incident is still to be established.
The suspect is currently receiving medical attention under police guard.
The suspect who is in his early thirties is scheduled to appear in the George Magistrates’ court on Tuesday, 11 August 2020, once been charged. He faces charges of attempted murder, theft of firearm, the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
Garden Route District Commissioner, Maj Gen OD Reddy as well as the George Provincial Traffic commander, Mr Quintin Williams visited the scene and commended all those involved for their rapid response and vigilance that has landed the suspect behind bars. Both expressed their shock that an officer of the law could be disregarded in such a way that her life is threatened and considered to be of no value. They wish her a speedy recovery.