VIR AFRIKAANS: Bloemfonteinse polisiebeampte van poging tot moord aangekla

A Bloemfontein-based police officer of the VIP Protection Unit is facing charges of attempted murder after discharging a firearm in a public space.

Vusimuzi Matthews Makhaza (49) was released on a warning after making a short appearance in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday (2/10). He was arrested on Thursday (28/9).

The Bloemfontein Magistrate's Court. Photo: OFM News

The National Independent Police Investigating Directorate (IPID) spokesperson, Robbie Raburabu, said Makhaza, who is a member of the VIP Protection Unit, was escorting the MEC of Treasury in the Free State to an event during his arrest. He was detained at the Mangaung Police Station before he was later released on a warning.

Raburabu alleged Makhaza’s arrest came after a fight with a fellow patron at a tavern in Kagisanong, Bloemfontein, on 16 September. He was allegedly hit with a beer bottle on the ear and sustained an injury. Almost a week later, on Sunday 24 September, Makhaza allegedly went to the place of residence of the person who attacked him to take revenge. When he failed to locate him, he went back again later that evening and found him with his girlfriend.

IPID spokesperson, Robbie Raburabu, during an interview with NewzRoom Afrika. Photo: Screenshot

It’s understood the girlfriend of the man who allegedly assaulted the police officer answered the door with a 9-month-old baby in her arms, but she quickly closed the door and locked it when she saw the police officer with his firearm. Raburabu further alleged that the police officer discharged his firearm, hitting the door, in an attempt to get access to the house. The police were called and arrived at the scene after the officer left. 

He said IPID learned of the incident two days after it happened and they conducted preliminary investigations, which led to the arrest of the police officer. Mkhaza is expected to be back in court on (2/11).

Deputy President Paul Mashatile's VIP officers were recently arrested after a viral video depicted them assaulting unarmed people in Fourways, Gauteng.

OFM News