Suspected Fraudster Shot Dead After Trying To Disarm Officer At Limpopo Mine

A suspected fraudster was shot and killed during a tense confrontation with police detectives at the Foskor Mine in Phalaborwa, Limpopo, on Friday morning.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the deadly encounter occurred around 8:45 am while officers were following up on a fraud investigation that originated in Thohoyandou earlier this month.

“Three detective officers from Limpopo and one from Gauteng province were conducting investigations related to a fraud case that originated in the Thohoyandou policing area earlier this month,” said police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.

Detectives tracked down a 32-year-old man suspected of attempting to defraud the same victim twice — this time through what authorities called a bogus tender for laboratory services.

Suspected Fraudster Flees and Confrontation Escalates

When officers approached the man at the mine, he allegedly claimed he had contract documents to present. However, upon realising he was dealing with police, the suspect made a run for it.

“Police officers approached the suspect, who was reportedly preparing to provide what he claimed were contract documents. Upon realising police presence, the suspect fled on foot,” Ledwaba explained.

The chase led to a security fence on the mine premises. As the man tried to climb it, officers fired a warning shot. When he couldn’t get over the barrier, the suspect reportedly turned back and grabbed a detective’s firearm in a desperate attempt to escape arrest.

Struggle for Firearm Ends in Fatal Shooting

According to police, a struggle broke out between the suspect and an officer, resulting in the firearm discharging. The suspect was shot and pronounced dead at the scene. He was wearing a contractor’s uniform at the time.

“According to preliminary reports, when the suspect found himself unable to climb over the fence, he turned and allegedly grabbed the service firearm of the nearest police officer,” Ledwaba said.
“A struggle ensued over control of the weapon, resulting in the discharge of the firearm.”

Crime scene investigators examined the area near the Foskor Mine’s main gate. Two firearms believed to be linked to the incident were seized for further analysis. Police have not yet released the deceased man’s identity.

As per protocol, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) has been called in to launch an independent probe into the shooting.

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