PORT ELIZABETH, September 6 (ANA) – The Eastern Cape Gang Investigation Unit were caught up in cross-fire on Tuesday night when shots rang out while members were out in Port Elizabeth’s northern areas conducting routine investigation work.
Police spokesperson, Colonel Priscilla Naidu, said police members were busy with investigation duties in Helenvale when shots were fired in close proximity to where they were working.
“The police officers immediately ran towards the direction of the gunfire,” said Naidu. She said several shots were fired and one person was seen running down Kobus Road.
“It is suspected that rival gangs were firing at each other and the police officers were caught in the cross-fire. Despite the danger of being shot, the members arrested the suspect and recovered a CZ pistol and 14 rounds of ammunition,” said Naidu.
The 27-year-old suspect, allegedly affiliated to the “Nice Time Boys”, is expected to appear in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday on a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
The Cluster Commander for Mount Road Cluster, Major General Funeka Siganga, applauded the members who selflessly risked their lives in effecting the arrest. “September is police safety month and our members are continuously reminded to stay alert and ensure that they are vigilant at all times, especially in crime hotspot areas as they may encounter dangerous situations. The members from the Provincial Gang Investigation Unit are commended for being operationally ready and dealt with the situation without causing any injuries to themselves or others,” said Siganga.
– African News Agency (ANA)
