South African Police Investigate Fatal Shooting at Tavern in Giyani Village

South African police have launched a comprehensive investigation following a tragic incident in which a 37-year-old police sergeant shot and killed one person while injuring three others at a tavern in N’wadzekudzeku village, Giyani.

The incident occurred around 0.30am on Friday, December 15, 2023, according to Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the police spokesperson in Limpopo. Upon receiving a report about the shooting, officers arrived at the scene to find four individuals with gunshot wounds.

“Emergency personnel certified one of the victims dead, while the other three were immediately transported to a local hospital for medical treatment,” stated Mashaba.

According to the police spokesperson, a heated argument erupted between the 37-year-old sergeant and several patrons, including the deceased and his friends, leading to the tragedy.

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“The 37-year-old suspect retrieved a firearm and opened fire on the group,” explained Mashaba. “Despite attempts by some customers to subdue him, he fired indiscriminately and fled the scene. Tragically, one of the patrons, Smangaliso Hlungwani, a 26-year-old resident of N’wadzekudzeku village, lost his life.”

Further investigation revealed that the suspect returned to his residence in the same village and took his own life with the same weapon, resulting in instant death.

The deceased police sergeant was identified as Sukani Page Khosa, 37, who served at the SA Police Service (SAPS) Mopani district office.

A case of murder, three counts of attempted murder, and an inquest have been opened by the police.

Expressing her dismay, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Limpopo, condemned the incident.

“This unexpected event, where one of our own police officers is the main suspect, is highly regrettable, especially during this festive period when our officers should be serving and protecting the community,” said Hadebe.

“Law enforcement officials must adhere to the principles of the law both on and off duty, ensuring they do not become trigger-happy individuals.”

The investigation into the shooting is still ongoing.