Kariega Shooting: Three SAPS Officers Dead In Suspected Domestic Violence Incident

Three members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) were killed in a shooting incident in Kariega during the early hours of Wednesday morning.

According to SAPS, officers responded to a complaint of gunshots at a residence in Rudman Street at approximately 00:45.

Upon arrival, police found three constables with multiple gunshot wounds. Two officers were declared dead at the scene, while a third died after being transported to Cuyler Hospital.

Police said the identities of the deceased members will be released once their families have been informed.

Preliminary Investigation Into Kariega SAPS Shooting Underway

Preliminary investigations suggest that a male constable, believed to be the former boyfriend of a female constable, allegedly forced entry into the house where she and another male constable were present.

Witnesses reportedly heard gunshots shortly afterwards.

A state-issued firearm and 10 live rounds of ammunition were recovered from the scene. Ballistic testing will form part of the investigation.

IPID And SAPS Launch Parallel Investigations

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been informed of the incident and will conduct a parallel investigation in terms of the IPID Act. SAPS has also opened an internal disciplinary case.

Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Vuyisile Ncata conveyed condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased officers.

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“This is a tragic and devastating loss for the SAPS family. Three young officers have lost their lives under heartbreaking circumstances. We are providing trauma debriefing and counselling to all members affected, and we will ensure the families receive the support they need during this difficult time.”

Police said no further information would be released at this stage as investigations continue.