The 27-year-old police officer, who has been identified as Vuyani March (27), was shot in the head and died at the scene whilst George Calvert (41) was shot in the face and rushed to the Kimberley Hospital for treatment.

This happened during a shootout with 36-year-old Koen Badenhorst, who was allegedly on the property of 60-year-old Paul Nel. It is alleged that Badenhorst had previously threatened Nel and during a police patrol on Thursday evening, one police officer received information that Badenhorst’s bakkie was on Nel’s property. Upon calling Nel to warn him that Badenhorst was on his farm, the police officer then heard noises as she was on the phone with Nel, followed by silence. The police officer then called for backup, only to find Nel’s body on the porch.

It is alleged that March was then fatally shot by Badenhorst who was hiding in the bushes on the property. A shoot-out between Calvert and Badenhorst ensued, leaving Badenhorst injured and Calvert with a serious injury. Badenhorst died on the way to the hospital.

Earlier on police spokesperson in the province, Thandi Mbambo, revealed that the police found a firearm and a hunting rifle at the scene and three counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder have been registered for further investigation. Meanwhile, Sempe passed his condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of March. “It is unfortunate that we woke to such gruesome disturbing news of yet another incident in Koffiefontein where one of our members is killed whilst performing their duties. I also want to wish the injured member who is admitted to the Kimberley Hospital, a speedy recovery”.

The incident comes nearly two years after two Constables, Obert Boitumelo Mekoa and Mzonani David Manjo, both 32-years-old, were found dead at a Community Service Centre by their colleagues on the morning of 29 June 2017. Mekoa was shot once in the head and Manjo was shot in the back and head. One of the deceased’s service pistol was also reported to be missing.

OFM News