A 60-year-old businessman from Mthatha has been arrested for allegedly discharging a firearm inside a tent and injuring an off-duty female police official in the process.
The alleged incident took place at a traditional ceremony held at Mazizini locality, Zimbane Administrative Area, in Mthatha.
Following the incident, the suspect turned himself in to the Mthatha police, and his licensed firearm was seized for further investigation.
Captain Welile Matyolo said: “A case of attempted murder was opened at Mthatha Central Police Station.”
The 39-year-old female victim was rushed to a nearby hospital, having sustained a bullet wound to her upper body. At the time of writing, she was reportedly in a stable condition.
“The motive for the shooting forms part of an ongoing investigation,” said Matyolo.
The suspect is due to appear at the Mthatha Magistrate’s Court on Monday, July 20.
The public shooting was strongly condemned by Major General Norman Modishana, the OR Tambo District Commissioner, who called on investigators to conduct a thorough inquiry to ensure justice is served.
nokubonga.ndlovu@inl.co.za
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