It’s alleged that the victim was out on a call at 08:00 on 10 November 2024, at a Bloemspruit farm after an electricity outage. 

Free State police spokesperson Peter Kareli said he felt a slight pinch on his shoulder and asked his colleague, who informed him he had been shot. He was then rushed to hospital with a wound on his shoulder.

Centlec spokesperson, Lele Mamatu, confirmed that Ricardo Willemse was shot in the shoulder while responding to a callout in the Roodewal area by a farmer.

“Centlec wishes Willemse a speedy recovery and has provided him with all necessary support during the recovery process. The safety of our employees remains our top priority. We have implemented measures to ensure their well-being, including assigning armed response personnel to accompany technicians on standby duty since the beginning of the year.”

Mamatu condemned acts of violence and urged the public to respect the work of essential service employees to deliver services to the community. He said Centlec is cooperating fully with authorities and hopes the perpetrator will be arrested soon.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg