KwaZulu-Natal: Officer Accidentally Shoots Colleagues During Operation

During an operation in Boboyi, Port Shepstone, a KwaZulu-Natal police officer unintentionally shot two colleagues, resulting in one fatality and injuring the other.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), currently investigating the incident as a case of culpable homicide, reported that the officer mistakenly believed they were under attack.

According to IPID, six Public Order Police officers, along with two members of the Port Shepstone K9 Unit, were involved in an operation shortly after 10 p.m. on Sunday to apprehend an individual allegedly connected to a domestic dispute. Reports indicate that as officers attempted to control the situation, a stun grenade was deployed in the room.

Believing they were "under attack," the officer "opened fire but accidentally shot two of her colleagues." IPID confirmed, "One police officer was shot and killed, and the other was injured and taken to hospital." The agency is now examining the case under charges of culpable homicide and negligent discharge of a firearm.

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu expressed condolences, stating, "Our thoughts are especially with the family of the Public Order Police member who lost his life in this unfortunate event.

We also send our prayers for the full recovery of the K9 Unit member who sustained injuries." Mchunu emphasized that the ministry would support those affected by the incident and work to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

In his statement, Mchunu also called for heightened caution during police operations and noted that a thorough investigation is underway to understand the circumstances leading to the shooting. He urged IPID to expedite the inquiry to bring clarity and closure to those involved.

Mchunu added, "We call on all law enforcement teams to exercise utmost caution in planning and executing operations, particularly those involving high-risk situations. It is vital to reinforce protocols, ensure clear communication, and employ the highest standards of safety to protect both our officers and the communities they serve."