Hanover Park residents attacked a police officer chasing an armed suspect on Friday. The officer was badly injured.
The City of Cape Town is offering a R20,000 reward for information leading to the attackers.
MCM for Safety & Security, JP Smith, said at about 9am, Shotspotter – gunshot detection technology used by the unit – picked up many gunshots in Johndown, Lonedown and Ryburg.
“Metro police and law enforcement officers responded and saw an armed suspect running away. One officer chased him on foot. The suspect turned and aimed at the officer, who then drew his weapon and fired,” said Smith.
Alleged gang members then started throwing stones at the officer.
“The officer got head injuries, and a patrol vehicle was also damaged. The officer has been taken to a hospital for treatment,” said Smith.
“We don’t know all the details about this shooting. This is not the first time bystanders have interfered with officers doing their job or caused them harm.”
The gunman escaped, while bystanders took the firearm.
Smith said that a civilian was shot and taken to hospital by private transport.
A resident, speaking anonymously, said they were saddened by what had happened.
“Unfortunately, our whole community is being judged because of this. Officers might delay responding to incidents here, and we can’t blame them because they are being attacked. Not all of us are attacking the officers,” said the resident
“Sometimes innocent people get shot, and officers need to respond quickly to help them. But how can they do that if they are being attacked? I hope the suspects are arrested.”
Pictured above: Screenshot.
Source: Supplied
