Police wanted to arrest six people suspected of being involved in illegal mining on Thursday (14/8) at Western Holdings, Rheederspark Extension 2, when the community allegedly prevented officers from effecting the arrest.

Residents were informed it was a zama zama operation by a mining security company and the police. The situation turned violent, and live ammunition was allegedly fired in a residential area. A bystander was shot in the neck.

Videos circulating on social media show the police leaving without helping the wounded woman, and returning later and allegedly assaulting community members with a cane.

‘A case of attempted murder was registered against the police’

Ipid confirmed a case of attempted murder was registered against the police, said national IPID spokesperson Phaladi Shuping. “It is alleged that the police wanted to arrest six people suspected of being involved in illegal mining, and the community allegedly prevented the police from effecting the arrest.”

The community allegedly tried to attack the police. Officers reportedly fired a shot when a stray bullet allegedly hit someone, he said.

The DA has called on the Welkom station commander to address the community on the events and explain how live ammunition was used in a residential area. He must also initiate a formal investigation into the shooting and assault by police.

The party has promised to monitor this matter and the investigations. “We will not rest until those responsible are held to account and community trust in law enforcement is restored,” said Matjhabeng DA Cllr Estelle Dansey.

“This brutality occurred during Women’s Month, a time meant to honour and protect women, which makes it all the more disgraceful. A woman being shot by those sworn to protect her and then abandoned without aid is a gross violation of human rights and a damning indictment of our policing standards.”

The injured bystander is recovering in a local hospital.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame cvs