Developing story: no arrests have been confirmed and police have not given a motive.
A 28-year-old police constable was shot dead while off duty in Belhar, Cape Town, in the early hours of Wednesday 11 November. The murder case has since been transferred to the Hawks, according to reports.
What police have said
The shooting happened shortly after 00:50 at the corner of Graduate and Degree Close in Belhar. Police spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala confirmed the incident, saying: "This office confirms that a 28-year-old male Constable from Belhar Crime Prevention Unit was shot by unknown suspects."
Belhar police opened a murder case before it was transferred to the Hawks. Police have not confirmed any arrests. One report described the incident as a suspected hijacking attempt, but the motive has not been confirmed by police.
Tributes
The organisation Fight Against Crime South Africa (FACSA) paid tribute to the constable, describing his death as a life of service cut short by senseless violence.
What we do not yet know
- The motive, and whether anything was taken.
- Whether any suspects have been identified.
- Funeral arrangements, and any statement from the Western Cape police leadership.
