Police received information about a hostage situation in Moabi Street, Ratanang township, at around 11:45 on Sunday (16/8). Xhariep district commissioner Brig. Mohiti Sereetsi, the Bloemfontein tactical response team, crime intelligence, police hostage negotiators, and other role players were deployed to the scene.

Preliminary information indicates that a police constable, 28, stationed in Hanover, Northern Cape, allegedly shot a 25-year-old in the shoulder, Free State police spokesperson Lt. Col. Thabo Covane said. Hostage negotiators then began deliberations with the officer, which continued for several hours.

At about 20:25, the constable surrendered his service pistol and handed himself over to police without any loss of life. Emergency medical personnel treated the injured woman before she was transported to a hospital in Kimberley for further medical care.

The constable was arrested and is expected to appear in the Jacobsdal Magistrate’s Court soon. Free State provincial commissioner Lt. Gen Thabang Lesia commended police members and other role players for their professionalism and restraint in resolving what he described as a volatile and potentially life-threatening situation.

“This incident demonstrates the importance of professional hostage negotiation, patience, and a coordinated multidisciplinary response when dealing with volatile and potentially life-threatening situations. The successful resolution of this incident, without loss of life, is a commendable achievement,” Lesia said.

He commended the hostage negotiators, tactical response team, crime intelligence, Xhariep District management, and other role players who worked to resolve the situation peacefully. 

Their primary focus throughout the operation remained the preservation of life, while their commitment and professionalism deserved recognition, Lesia said.

Police wished the injured woman a speedy recovery and said the circumstances surrounding the incident would be thoroughly investigated. 

Lesia stressed that police members were equally subject to the law and that allegations of criminal conduct against officers would be dealt with through due process.

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