Home SAPS officer in ‘self-defence’ row after shooting burglar at his home

SAPS officer in ‘self-defence’ row after shooting burglar at his home

If you’re going to orchestrate a home invasion, at least do your research first. Two alleged burglars were shot – and one fatally – after they targeted a property belonging to a SAPS officer in Free State. As per IPID protocols, the cop will now undergo an investigation to confirm if his use of ‘self-defence‘ was warranted.

Thieves target cop in Free State

A case of murder, attempted murder, and house robbery was subsequently registered at Heidedal SAPS. A 26-year-old male was shot in the chest and declared dead at the scene when the authorities arrived. A second suspect has gunshot wounds to the legs and was immediately rushed to Pelonomi Hospital.

Upon being discharged from the facility on Tuesday, the 30-year-old perp was then arrested. It has also been revealed:

  • The incident took place at a house in Paper Street, Heidedal, around 2:00 on Tuesday 10 November.
  • A plasma TV that belongs to the police officer was targeted during the robbery.
  • The vehicle that was used by the suspects was confiscated after it was found without registration numbers and disc.

Self-defence row for SAPS officer who shot robbers

The decision to open charges against the police officer will no doubt prove to be highly controversial. Self-defence laws in South Africa are mired with grey areas and loose interpretations. Essentially, lethal force is permitted if it matches the scale of the threat presented by the situation and the suspects – and this is what IPID will have to establish.

If the burglars were unarmed, then the law could find that the cop went too far in gunning down the suspects. But, if they were in possession of a firearm, his actions would likely be deemed as ‘fair and appropriate’. Meanwhile, the surviving crook has a date with Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court this week, to accept a charge of house robbery.

Latest reaction from Free State SAPS

SAPS have posted a quick update on the charges, confirming several major details in the process:

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the two suspects were shot after they broke into a police officer’s house. The shooting incident by a police officer will be investigated further by IPID. A case of murder was registered at Heidedal SAPS. The arrested suspect will appear at Bloemfontein Magistrate court soon on a charge of house robbery.”

SAPS statement


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