Mbombela, Mpumalanga – A 35-year-old Mozambican national has been arrested, while two accomplices remain on the run. The incident, which occurred 18 April 2025, has raised concerns about armed criminal activity in the area and the safety of private security personnel.
Police have recovered an AK-47 rifle from the arrested suspect, and ballistic tests are underway to determine if the weapon was used in previous crimes. Authorities are also investigating the suspect’s immigration status, as concerns grow over cross-border criminal networks operating in South Africa.
The Deadly Shooting: How It Unfolded
The attack took place at approximately 22:40 PM on 18 April 2025, when security officers patrolling Riverside Mall noticed three suspicious men loitering near the premises. One guard approached the group to question them, leading to a heated argument.
Without warning, one of the suspects pulled out a firearm and shot the guard in the head, killing him instantly. The gunfire alerted nearby security personnel, who rushed to the scene. A shootout erupted between the suspects and the responding guards, during which one attacker was struck.
Despite his injury, the wounded suspect managed to escape to the mall’s rooftop, where he hid for several hours. The other two suspects fled the scene and remain missing.
Police Response and Arrest
The South African Police Service (SAPS) was immediately notified, prompting a multi-unit response involving:
- Nelspruit Flying Squad (rapid-response unit)
- Visible Policing teams
- Local detectives
Police surrounded the mall and, after an extensive search, located the injured suspect hiding on the rooftop in the early hours of the morning. He was arrested without further resistance, and an AK-47 rifle was confiscated from him.
Weapon Analysis
The recovered rifle has been sent for ballistic testing to determine if it has been used in other crimes. AK-47s are frequently linked to armed robberies, cash-in-transit heists, and gang-related violence in South Africa, making this a critical lead for investigators.
Suspect’s Background
Authorities are working with the Department of Home Affairs to verify whether the suspect is legally documented in South Africa. Given his Mozambican nationality, police are exploring possible connections to cross-border crime syndicates.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The arrested suspect is currently under police guard in a local hospital, receiving treatment for his injuries. Once medically cleared, he will appear in court to face multiple charges, including:
- Murder (for the killing of the security guard)
- Attempted murder (for firing at other responding guards)
- Possession of an illegal firearm (AK-47 rifles are prohibited for civilian ownership)
- Possession of ammunition
Additional charges may be added as the investigation progresses, especially if ballistic tests link the weapon to other crimes.
Manhunt for the Two Fugitives
While one suspect is in custody, two others remain at large. Police have released an appeal to the public for assistance, urging anyone with information to come forward.
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How to Help:
- Call Crime Stop: 08600 10111 (anonymous tip line)
- Use the MySAPSApp to submit information securely
- Contact local Mbombela SAPS detectives directly
Authorities have assured the public that all tips will remain confidential, and callers can choose to stay anonymous.
