A Gauteng police officer was among two men killed during a violent confrontation at a mine in Mahlokwane Village, Limpopo, prompting police to launch a murder investigation and a manhunt for those responsible.
The deadly incident unfolded on Tuesday following a dispute linked to mining operations at the site.
Gauteng Police Officer Killed In Limpopo Mine Shooting
According to police, the two men claimed they held shares in the mine and had a court order to halt mining activities.
The pair had initially visited the mine last Friday to meet with the owner but left after he did not arrive.
They returned to the property on Tuesday and waited for the owner before they were confronted by a group of people who arrived in several vehicles.
Limpopo Mine Dispute Turns Deadly
Limpopo police said a physical confrontation broke out between the parties, leading to gunfire.
Police spokesperson Malesela Ledwaba said one of the men died at the scene, while the second fled before later succumbing to his injuries at a medical facility.
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“A physical altercation broke out, during which one man was shot dead at the scene. The second man fled but later died after being taken to a medical facility. Police have since confirmed that one of the deceased was a 40-year-old police officer stationed in Gauteng.”
Police have opened two murder cases as investigations into the shooting continue.
Ledwaba said law enforcement has mobilised all available resources to identify and arrest those involved.
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“The police have opened two cases of murder and a manhunt for the unknown suspects involved in the incident is currently underway.”
Investigators are continuing to gather evidence as the search for the suspects progresses.
