Central SA
Man found dead after Welkom shootout─── BAMBATHA GIKO 12:08 Tue, 07 Feb 2023
An unidentified male was found dead by a security guard on 7 February 2023 following a shootout on one of the mine's premises in Bambanani East, at Welkom in the Free State.
Police spokesperson Stephen Thakeng said the security guard heard gunshots while on patrol nearby. He said the security guard saw twenty men, believed to be zama-zama’s, shooting in his direction and it turned into a shootout with the unknown assailants.
According to the Welkom Police, five 9mm handguns were recovered at the crime scene and no security officer suffered any injuries.
The deceased has been taken to the Welkom Forensic Pathology Services and a case of murder has been opened for further investigation.
The public is urged to assist with finding the family of the deceased as well as the suspects involved in the shootout. Anyone with information may contact the Crime Stop number (08600-10111) or alternatively, Detective Warrant Officer Riaan de Lange (082-821-9227).
