Four Security Officers Arrested in Mpumalanga After Motorist Attack

Semi-Automatic Rifles, Stones, and 104 Bullets: Security Officers Arrested for Motorist Attack

In a shocking display of abuse of authority, four security officers in Mpumalanga were arrested after allegedly attacking a motorist at Nhlazatshe Crossing in Elukwatini earlier this week. The incident, which left the driver terrified but unharmed, underscores ongoing concerns about the oversight of private security personnel in South Africa.

From Routine Stop to Armed Attack

According to Provincial Police Spokesperson Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe, the drama unfolded on Monday when the officers stopped the driver and demanded to search his vehicle. When the man refused, tensions escalated rapidly.

“It is alleged that the security officers began throwing stones at the vehicle and fired multiple shots,” said Nonyane-Mpe.

Miraculously, the motorist escaped without injury and immediately reported the attack to the police. The prompt response from law enforcement led to a swift manhunt.

Swift Justice: Arrests and Seizure

Police later arrested the four men Phumlani Muzi Nene (31), Mongameli Xaba (29), Mhlengu Shange (32), and Siyabonga Zondo (29) the same day as the incident. Authorities also confiscated an alarming cache of weapons:

• Two semi-automatic rifles

• One shotgun

• One pistol

• 104 rounds of live ammunition

“The members acted promptly upon receiving the complaint and managed to locate and arrest the suspects within hours of the incident,” Nonyane-Mpe confirmed.

The suspects were remanded in custody at Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrate’s Court and are scheduled to return on 12 November for a formal bail application.

Accountability Over Uniform

Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the police team for ensuring that law enforcement transcends job titles.

“No one is above the law, and we will not hesitate to act against anyone who uses their position or uniform to intimidate or harm members of the community,” Mkhwanazi said.

The police have also reiterated that private security companies must hold their personnel accountable and operate strictly within legal boundaries. Any misuse of power or intimidation will not be tolerated.

Public Concern and Cultural Context

South Africans have long voiced concerns over private security companies operating with minimal oversight, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Social media reaction to this incident has been intense, with many questioning how trained officers could resort to firing semi-automatic rifles at civilians.

This case serves as a stark reminder that even those entrusted with protecting the public can, at times, pose a threat and that vigilance, prompt reporting, and strong law enforcement are crucial to maintaining safety.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing, and residents of Elukwatini and surrounding areas are calling for stricter monitoring of private security personnel.

{Source: IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com