Cape Town - A law enforcement officer is in a stable condition in hospital after he was shot twice during an attempted hijacking outside his residence in Gugulethu.
Bulelani Mxuthu, 40, was off-duty when he came under attack from gunmen who fired multiple shots.
Safety and security Mayco member, JP Smith, condemned the attack.
“The officer was shot outside his home in Gugulethu (on Sunday) night in what-appears-to-be an attempted hijacking.
“The City calls on anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The incident happened at approximately 7pm.
“According to the officer’s wife, it was an attempted hijacking – the attackers fired numerous rounds, two of which hit the 40-year-old. He was transported to hospital where he is in a stable condition.
“It comes just a week after our annual Remembrance Service, and almost a year to the day that we lost another law enforcement officer. The City will support the SAPS in their investigation to ensure those responsible are brought to book,” said Smith.
Anonymous tip-offs can be relayed 24-hours a day on 0800110077.
Police spokesperson, Joseph Swartbooi, said the incident was under investigation. “Gugulethu police responded to a complaint on Sunday.
“Upon arrival at the scene in NY 3A, they were informed by community members that the victim was taken to hospital.
“At the medical facility they found the 40-year-old man who sustained injuries owing to gunshots. The unknown suspect/s fled the scene and are yet to be arrested. Gugulethu police are investigating a case of attempted murder,” said Swartbooi.
Portfolio committee on police chairperson, Ian Cameron, wished Mxuthu well on his recovery. “He had been at his church. He survived the incident and was in a critical condition that night. Pray for this man.”
The police appealed to anyone with information to call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
mandilakhe.tshwete@inl.co.za
Cape Argus