In a shocking incident that highlights the increasing crime rate in South Africa, two police officers were recently attacked and assaulted while on duty in Freedom Park, North West.
The officers had located a suspect wanted for assault and were attempting to bring him to the police station when they were ambushed by members of the community.
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The suspect, a 51-year-old man, allegedly blew a whistle to gather the attention of the residents. The community members quickly gathered at his place, locked the gate, and proceeded to tie up the police officers with ropes.
They then proceeded to assault the officers with knobkerries, a traditional African weapon.
Not only were the officers physically assaulted, but they were also robbed of their cellphones.
In addition, the state vehicle they were travelling in was damaged by the residents. The situation became increasingly dangerous for the officers, as they were outnumbered and unable to defend themselves.
Fortunately, the ordeal came to an end when the tactical response team arrived at the scene and rescued the officers. However, both officers sustained injuries during the attack and required medical attention.
An investigation was immediately launched, leading to the arrest of five suspects. The suspects, aged between 24 and 51, were charged with robbery, assaulting police officers, aiding an escape, and malicious damage to property. They are scheduled to appear in court on Monday.
This incident is just one example of the brazen attacks on members of the South African Police Service (SAPS). As the country’s crime rate continues to rise, police officers are increasingly becoming targets for criminals.
There have been instances where police stations themselves have been under siege, with officers being held up and robbed of their firearms.
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Some police stations have taken the drastic measure of closing by sunset to avoid being attacked. This is a clear indication of the dangerous environment in which these officers operate on a daily basis.
Last week, even the Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga fell victim to armed highway bandits. Her bodyguards were held up and robbed of their firearms, cash, and cellphones while changing a burst tire along the N3.
The incident serves as a reminder that no one is immune to the escalating crime in the country.
