Reports Emerges Over Fatal Shooting Of Four Tactical Officers In Eastern Cape

Conflicting reports have emerged regarding a fatal shooting incident of four tactical officers in the Eastern Cape. Allegations surrounding the incident remain unclear as authorities and the employer of the deceased provide differing accounts.

Last night, KZN VIP Protection Services, the employer of the four tactical officers, released a statement confirming their deaths. The company identified the deceased as Michael Shabangu, Bulelani Mbasa, Bonga Mtshali, and Simon Ndaba, who were killed in the Eastern Cape on February 20.

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However, the company stated that it was unable to verify the exact circumstances of their deaths.

“The police have issued multiple conflicting statements, leading to irresponsible and inaccurate media reports. Some have wrongfully labelled our officers as suspects involved in a cash-in-transit robbery and accused them of possessing unlicensed firearms,” the company stated.

KZN VIP Protection Services further claimed that videos and photographs circulating on social media serve as evidence contradicting these allegations. The company remains hopeful that the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the truth.

Police Version of Events

Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa, spokesperson for the Eastern Cape provincial police, provided a different account. According to Mawisa, seven armed suspects were fatally wounded during a shootout with police on the N2 near Ndabakazi, outside Butterworth.

Mawisa explained that members of the National Intervention Unit were acting on intelligence about two vehicles carrying firearms traveling from Cofimvaba. When police attempted to stop the vehicles near Cofimvaba, the occupants sped off, prompting a high-speed chase. Additional police units were called in for support.

“As the chase continued between Ndabakazi and Butterworth, the suspects opened fire on the police, who retaliated. Upon investigation, seven individuals were found fatally wounded, and firearms were recovered in their vehicles,” Mawisa stated.

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The case has now been referred to IPID for further investigation.

However, as the inquiry unfolds, questions remain over whether the deceased were legitimate security officers or armed suspects. The investigation by IPID is expected to provide clarity on the circumstances leading to the fatal shooting.

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